Research themes, authors and methodologies in the South African Journal of Agricultural Extension: an analysis of publications 1999–2014

Abstract

The South African Journal of Agricultural Extension (SAJAE) is a scientific journal that acts as the mouthpiece for the South African Society of Agricultural Extension (SASAE), which was established in 1966, and through which it publishes articles and disseminates research information. This study examined the primary and secondary research themes and ascertained the prolific authors and the research methods and designs that were prevalent in the SAJAE issues published from 1999 to 2014. A total of 177 articles were reviewed and a total of 33 primary research themes (PRTs) and 36 secondary research themes (SRTs) were identified. The most emerging themes are “diffusion, and adoption of innovation”. Two hundred and fifty-six SAJAE authors were identified, with G. H. Düvel being identified as the most prolific author. Moreover, quantitative research methods were the most common, with survey design being most prevalent. It is subsequently recommended that periodic reviews of SAJAE be conducted, as well as comparative reviews with similar journals. A collaborative approach was suggested.

Keywords: Content analysis, primary research themes, secondary research themes, prolific author, quantitative method, survey