Question

Which of the following methods are suitable for eliciting opinions of illiterate women?
(A). Group Discussion
(B). Lecture Method
(C). Role Play
(D). Case Study

• A. (A), (B) and (C) only.
• B. (A), (C) and (D) only.
• C. (A), (B), (C) and (D).
• D. (B), (C) and (D) only.

Hint:

To engage illiterate or semi-literate audiences, always select highly interactive, verbal, or visual methods (like Group Discussions and Role Plays) while avoiding passive, one-way methods (like Lectures).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Extension communication methods are classified based on their suitability for different target audiences, their operational complexity, and the degree of audience participation.
When working with marginalized or illiterate populations, such as rural women with limited access to formal education, traditional written or passive communication methods are ineffective.
Instead, extension workers must select participatory, interactive, and visual methods that encourage self-expression, build confidence, and do not rely on reading or writing.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate the suitability of each method for eliciting opinions from illiterate women:
(A). Group Discussion:
This method is highly suitable.
Group discussions create an informal, non-threatening environment where women can comfortably speak, share their personal experiences, and express their opinions on community issues.
It relies entirely on oral communication, making it accessible to illiterate individuals.
(B). Lecture Method:
This method is not suitable.
A lecture is a passive, one-way, teacher-centered communication method where the audience simply listens to an expert.
It does not allow for two-way dialogue and is ineffective for eliciting opinions or active participation.
(C). Role Play:
This method is highly suitable.
Role play is an active, participatory method where participants act out real-life situations.
It is highly engaging, helps overcome shyness, and allows illiterate women to express complex social or household issues through action and dialogue without needing written tools.
(D). Case Study:
This method can be adapted to be highly suitable.
By presenting a real or hypothetical story (narrative case study) orally, the extension worker can prompt the women to analyze the situation, share similar experiences, and offer their opinions on how to solve the problem presented.
Therefore, (A), (C), and (D) are participatory, interactive methods suitable for this audience, while (B) is a passive, non-participatory method.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Consequently, the correct option representing the suitable methods is (A), (C), and (D) only.