Editor's Page

Themes That Bind Us Together

This issue of the Journal has three major themes: relations with the private sector, alternative communication methods, and international linkages. Each theme is a reflection of major trends affecting Extension's future. It's in that sense that they're themes that bind us together.

The increasing complexity of societal problems makes it clear that Extension's commitment to issues programming will require new partnerships and greater collaboration with the private sector. But closer relationships with the private sector hold the potential for conflicts of interest that could undermine Extension's credibility and effectiveness. ECOP Chair Richard Fowler focuses attention on this problem in his To the Point lead article. Janet Poley responds from the federal level, while Linda Erickson of Oregon provides a county perspective. John Voris' Forum article advocating direct Extension involvement in commodity associations is also relevant to this issue.

The four feature articles present research on alternative communication, education, and delivery methods. Each article contains lessons learned about effective Extension methods relevant to all program areas and subject-matter specializations. Loftis and Kendall present lessons they learned about programming on controversial issues as a result of developing a videotape on pesticides in food. Iams and Marion found that the way people prefer to learn depends on what they're learning. Beuerlein, Helsel, and Woodruff present lessons they've learned about effective handbook production and use. Goetting and Pourroy discuss an evaluation of an innovative newsletter approach.

The special section on "Extension in a Global Context" calls our attention to one of the most significant trends of our times- the globalization of everything. The editorial deadline for this issue of the Journal was January 15, the date on which the United Nations resolution authorizing the use of force against Iraq took effect. But, by the time you receive this issue, the war will be over. Whatever the news and events of the moment, you can be sure that global economic, political, and technological developments will have major implications for the issues Extension is asked to address and the resources available to address those issues.

The Research in Brief section in this issue is twice as large as usual. This is a tribute to and manifestation of Extension's commitment to conduct research so Extension's programs and methods are based on a solid foundation of knowledge and reflective practice.

We've moved the Letters section to the front of the Journal. This is where you find the letters in most publications in recognition of the importance of reader responses. Send your letters-as well as manuscripts-to the new editor, Ellen Ritter. Her address is on the inside front cover. The next issue of the Journal will introduce Ellen more formally, but her three-year term begins July 1, 1991.

MQP