Signature Programs: eXtension

About eXtension

eXtension is an interactive learning environment delivering the best, most researched knowledge from the smartest land-grant university minds across America. eXtension connects knowledge consumers with knowledge providers who know their subject matter inside out.

eXtension offers:

• Credible expertise
• Reliable answers based upon sound research
• Connections to the best minds in American universities
• Creative solutions to today’s complex challenges
• Customized answers to users’ specific needs
• Trustworthy, field-tested data
• Dynamic, relevant and timely answers

eXtension is unlike any other search engine or information-based website. It’s a space where university content providers can gather and produce new educational and information resources on wide-ranging topics. Because it’s available to students, researchers, clinicians, professors, as well as the general public, at any time from any Internet connection, eXtension helps solve real-life problems in real time.

Evaluating the eXtension National Initiative

Through a long-term federally funded grant, the department leads evaluation and research activities for eXtension. Externally funded eXtention evaluation and research projects associated with the department include: evaluating transformation of the Extension System through eXtension, evaluation of an online course for enhancing financial management for farm and ranch families, and evaluation of eXtension programs for military families.

The eXtension Evaluation and Research Leader, Michael Lambur, is a research professor in the department but works with eXtension staff throughout the U.S.  He provides evaluation leadership and technical support to the 51 Communities of Practice that develop information and educational materials for the eXtension public website.  Please contact Dr. Lambur at lamburmt@vt.edu.