Abstract

Sericulture as an agrarian small-scale industry suits both marginal and small land holders because of its high returns, and it creates opportunity for family employment. Iran has long history in cocoon and silk production, but the demand for rearing silkworm during recent years has had a significant reduction. This study examines sericulture extension as a strategy for revitalizing silkworm cocoon production from sericulturists’ view in Iran. Research methodology applied in this study was a combination of descriptive-analytical and quantitative methods and statistical methods included correlation and multiple regression analysis as data processing methods along with structural equation modeling (SEM). Sample size included 316 sericulturists in Iran. The results of structural equation modeling have appeared that effective training is the most important effective factor on revitalizing silkworm cocoon production. Marketing had most effect on attitude about extension. The method of acquiring sericulture information had effect on effective training. The effective training had effect on presenting technologies and participation and also the method of acquiring sericulture information had effect on effective factors of technologies adoption. On the basis of structural model, we can conclude that extension education is necessary for revitalizing silkworm cocoon production in Iran, human capital development and to mobilize sericulturists with valuable knowledge and technology through the formation of partnerships.
  
 Key words: Structural equation modeling (SEM), sericulture extension, revitalization, Iran.