The impact of digital technology adoption on service performance of grassroots agricultural extension workers: the mediating role of knowledge network expansion

Key Points

• This research explores how adopting digital technology affects the service performance of grassroots agricultural extension workers and the mediating effect of knowledge network expansion.
• Analyzed survey data from 1506 grassroots agricultural extension workers in Jiangxi province.
• Utilized regression models and mediation effect models to assess impact.
• Conducted robustness tests using sample replacements and regression analysis.
• Digital technology significantly enhances service performance for grassroots agricultural extension workers.
• The effect is stronger for part-time extension workers compared to full-time workers.
• Workers from non-agricultural backgrounds benefit more than those from agricultural backgrounds.
• Workers with higher salaries show greater improvement in performance from digital technology use.