EXTENSION IN RELATION TO RESEARCH IN RURAL SOCIOLOGY.

This discussion concerning the relation of extension teaching in rural sociology to research in the same field is incomplete and non-conclusive but it is designed to stimulate coordinated effort in the two aspects of the same field rather than to give any final statements. Author is taking two positions which are somewhat opportune; first, that the justification for research in rural sociology today in the state colleges of agriculture is to collect the facts by which rural problems may be solved; and second, that it is the obligation of the extension rural sociologist to assist in the solution of rural social problems by using the accumulated knowledge. An elaboration of this position falls under three topics: (1) the subject matter of rural sociology; (2) the present activities of rural sociological extension; and (3) opportunities for extension based upon present knowledge and possible expansion of both the extension and research activities. Rural sociology arose as a result of the attention focused on the problems of rural life following the report of the American Country Life Commission in 1909. American rural society was showing tendencies towards disintegration; farm youth were going to the cities, rural churches were declining, farm children did not have equal opportunities with those in the cities in education and health care, and farm tenancy was on the increase.