Agree, based on farmers I know, field demonstrations and exercises would be better received, but surveys might also be helpful in determining which climate tools they might use and level of dependence.
After thinking more about specific question, climate tools are not necessarily field related, but more technical, internet weather forecasting, etc. Surveys may be best way to ascertain their knowledge level and ability to access and use available tools.
I think you mean Farmer's field school. FFS is considered as a good tool for teaching famers on the principle of learning by doing and seeing is believing. However, if you are trying to assess famers knowledge, it could be a best way to observe their knowledge. Therefore, it would be better to supplement by direct asking to them.