Taking the Leap: Exploring a Theory of Program Innovation

Authors

Rebecca L. Meyer, University of Minnesota
Nathan J. Meyer, University of Minnesota
Mary Jo Katras, University of Minnesota

Volume

56

Issue

5

DOI

10.34068/joe.56.05.12

Abstract

Innovation in Extension is often referred to as something tangible, such as a new resource or technique or new concepts. However, these things result from a program innovation process. In this article, we elaborate a grounded theory of how this process unfolds in the context of Extension. Through analysis of data from a national survey of practitioners from innovative programs, a panel presentation, and interviews with faculty at the University of Minnesota, we describe seven factors that influence what prompts innovation and how the process tends to unfold. We synthesize a capitals-based conceptual model and discuss implications for diagnosing and strengthening program innovation.

Creative Commons License

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Recommended Citation

Meyer, R. L., Meyer, N. J., & Katras, M. (2018). Taking the Leap: Exploring a Theory of Program Innovation. The Journal of Extension, 56(5), Article 12. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.56.05.12