{"title":"Leading gender equality change in higher education – the case of forestry","authors":"Stina Powell, Ann Grubbström","doi":"10.1080/1389224X.2021.2008997","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/1389224X.2021.2008997","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT Purpose The aim of this article is to examine the role of formal and informal leadership for advancing gender equality in forestry education. Methodology The article builds on empirical material from focus group interviews and semi-structured interviews with students, teachers and leaders at an agricultural university in Sweden. Findings The article finds that leadership for gender equality is not exclusively the role of formal leaders. We show that students and teachers, together with the formal leaders at the university, all expect others to take responsibility while expressing uncertainty about their own opportunities to effect change. Still, teachers appear as a group with great potential to make a difference. Practical Implications The article reveals a need for case-based research to clarify issues of gender equality in education and, in particular, how change might happen and who is expected to lead it. We suggest that higher education institutions address this ambiguous division of responsibilities. Theoretical Implications The role of formal leadership in gender equality change is continuously stressed in research, policy and practice. We have broadened the definition of leadership in this context beyond formal leadership, and we highlight, for example, teachers and professionals as role models and agents of change. Originality/Value The study generates important insights about why gender equality work often fails in higher education, and in particular in the male-dominated forestry sector. It also sheds light on the value of comprehensive case study research.","PeriodicalId":46772,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Agricultural Education & Extension","volume":"29 1","pages":"199 - 216"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2021-12-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"47936728","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"教育学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
E. Kilis, Anda Adamsone-Fiskovica, S. Šūmane, T. Tisenkopfs
{"title":"(Dis)continuity and advisory challenges in farmer-led retro-innovation: biological pest control and direct marketing in Latvia","authors":"E. Kilis, Anda Adamsone-Fiskovica, S. Šūmane, T. Tisenkopfs","doi":"10.1080/1389224X.2021.1997770","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/1389224X.2021.1997770","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT Purpose To advance the discussion of retro-innovation and highlight the implications this has for the provision of agricultural advice and the role of advisors. Design/Methodology/Approach 70 interviews with farmers and 10 interviews with experts on biological pest control and direct marketing in Latvia were conducted. Findings Biological pest control and direct marketing in Latvia are practices that challenge existing conceptions of retro-innovation as they exhibit incremental development, while still combining old and new knowledge in a way that transforms farming practices. They also underline the importance of continuous learning and exchange within the farming community, which supplement the knowledge and advice provided by formal advisory organisations, indicating that the practices are highly dependent upon locally embedded sources of knowledge and a balance between formal instruction and informal peer-to-peer learning. This allows them to retain their dynamism and evolve, although more targeted advisory assistance would help to address issues that prevent biological pest control and direct marketing from being more widely adopted. Practical implications This paper highlights the importance of locally embedded forms of learning and advice provision. A better understanding of these can provide a more solid basis for interventions that aim to encourage widespread adoption of sustainability-oriented practices. Theoretical implications This paper improves understanding of retro-innovation processes by drawing attention to the disparate motivations driving innovation and the role of continuity in retro-innovation. Originality This paper advances the discussion on retro-innovation by looking at examples that expand upon existing approaches to it and highlight specific advisory challenges.","PeriodicalId":46772,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Agricultural Education & Extension","volume":"28 1","pages":"653 - 670"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2021-11-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"43047553","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"教育学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
S. Audouin, Tahina Raharison, J. Rabesoa, Edson Samuel Noharinjanahary, Rado Ranaivoson, B. Triomphe
{"title":"To what extent can local-led innovation platforms tackle complex agricultural development challenges? Insights from Madagascar","authors":"S. Audouin, Tahina Raharison, J. Rabesoa, Edson Samuel Noharinjanahary, Rado Ranaivoson, B. Triomphe","doi":"10.1080/1389224X.2021.1997769","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/1389224X.2021.1997769","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT Purpose To investigate the emergence and specificities of local-led innovation platforms (IPs) in Madagascar and contrast them with neighbouring research-led IPs. Design/methodology/approach We developed a multi-disciplinary framework combining insights from the literature on IP, innovation support services, and innovative networks. Using an exploratory multiple case study approach, we used this framework to analyse eight IPs in Madagascar. Findings (i) local-led IPs are problem oriented, (ii) there is a gap between the stated objectives of the IPs and their activities, (iii) their significant shortcomings result from weak or lacking inter-organisational management practices. Practical Implications We propose concrete avenues for strengthening local-led IPs by building their capacity to innovate at the individual, organisational and network levels. Theoretical Implications We contribute to refining IP assessment methods with an operational framework based on a small subset of variables, focusing on activities, shortcomings, and inter-organisational management practices. We also call for further research into innovation network capacities. Originality/Value Our study sheds light on less documented local-led IPs. From a critical point of view, it shows that, despite the interest they attract among donors, local-led IPs suffer from specific weaknesses and require substantial support, especially when they operate in weak enabling environments.","PeriodicalId":46772,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Agricultural Education & Extension","volume":"29 1","pages":"149 - 172"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2021-11-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"43855482","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"教育学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Charlotte-Anne Chivers, Katie Bliss, A. de Boon, Lydia Lishman, J. Schillings, Rachel Smith, D. C. Rose
{"title":"Videos and podcasts for delivering agricultural extension: achieving credibility, relevance, legitimacy and accessibility","authors":"Charlotte-Anne Chivers, Katie Bliss, A. de Boon, Lydia Lishman, J. Schillings, Rachel Smith, D. C. Rose","doi":"10.1080/1389224X.2021.1997771","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/1389224X.2021.1997771","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT Purpose To explore the perceived credibility, relevance, legitimacy and accessibility of videos and podcasts in farm extension. Methods A two-phase mixed methods approach consisting of a pre-COVID online survey of farmers (n = 221), farmer telephone interviews (n = 60) and in-person focus groups of farmers (n = 4) followed by an analysis of how viewers interact with Agricology videos and podcasts, a further online survey (n = 141) and online farmer focus groups (n = 4) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings If they are to be perceived as effective extension methods, videos should be short, concise, practical, advert-free and visualise how to implement a practice. Podcasts can be longer, more detailed, and allow multitasking. Both should use farmer-friendly language, be easily accessible, high quality, non-biased, and be created by someone whom farmers respect. Practical implications Helps policy-makers and extensionists understand the potential of videos and podcasts and the trade-offs in using them with other forms of extension. The findings are also of use to global advisory services seeking to offer hybridised advice as a result of the ongoing COVID pandemic. Theoretical implications Elucidates the trade-offs of using videos and podcasts when face-to-face extension is not possible and develops the CRELE framework. Originality Discusses the role of podcasts in farm extension and re-evaluates the role of videos when face-to-face extension is impossible.","PeriodicalId":46772,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Agricultural Education & Extension","volume":"29 1","pages":"173 - 197"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2021-11-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"42011377","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"教育学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
M. Liberloo, J. Bijttebier, Emilie Lacour, D. Stilmant, F. Marchand
{"title":"Reflexive monitoring in action: setting up a monitoring system for learning effectiveness in agroecological farm innovation","authors":"M. Liberloo, J. Bijttebier, Emilie Lacour, D. Stilmant, F. Marchand","doi":"10.1080/1389224X.2021.1984954","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/1389224X.2021.1984954","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT Purpose We defined a methodological framework to monitor and evaluate farmer’s knowledge exchange and learning processes. Our proposed methodology can help farm advisors during the set-up, facilitation and evaluation of interactive activities with farmers, enabling the learning environment for adopting agroecological measures. Approach We used a monitoring approach to monitor and improve learning effectiveness during project activities. We based our monitoring approach on Reflexive Monitoring in Action (RMA) consisting of alternating stages of observation, analysis, reflection and action. We developed a methodological framework combining several theories on learning processes and behavioral change. Theories were translated into practical monitoring tools. Findings We describe the process of installing these monitoring tools. Qualitative data from interviews and a focus group indicate the challenges we encountered when monitoring learning effectiveness and lessons learnt. The conceptual framework of RMA had added value to strengthen collective learning processes and reflexivity. Practical implications Our study offers a methodology to monitor and reflect on learning effectiveness in a multi-actor context. This will support farm advisors in setting up productive learning environments. Theoretical implications Our study reveals additional insights on how to create a learning environment to support the transition to agroecology. Originality/value We translated the conceptual framework of RMA into a methodological framework and implemented it in a real-life setting. By iterative cycles of monitoring, reflection and adaptation, we enable an adaptive learning environment for the implementation of innovative agroecological practices.","PeriodicalId":46772,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Agricultural Education & Extension","volume":"28 1","pages":"231 - 250"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2021-11-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"47371164","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"教育学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Entrepreneurial resilience of small and medium-sized businesses among rural women in Iran","authors":"K. Rezaei-Moghaddam, Fatemeh Badzaban, M. Fatemi","doi":"10.1080/1389224X.2021.1985539","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/1389224X.2021.1985539","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT Purpose The present study aimed to analyze the entrepreneurial resilience of small and medium-sized businesses among rural women. Design/Methodology The study was conducted using a survey, and 269 individuals were selected through stratified random sampling. This research was conducted in three stages. First, the Lifespan Resilience Scale-Business was used to identify the factor structure of women's business resilience. Second, the resilience of women entrepreneurs' businesses was analyzed. And third, path analysis was carried out to identify the factors affecting the resilience of women's businesses. Findings The business resilience of rural entrepreneur women was determined by the following components: external resources, internal resources, innovation, opportunity and adaptation, risk management, and family support. The results of the causal model indicated that the variables of marketing strategy, marketing mix, marketing methods, business communication, business plan preparation skills and supporting policies are effective factors in improving business resilience. Theoretical Implications To improve the entrepreneurial resilience of rural women, it is necessary to identify the influential factors and their indicators to reduce entrepreneurial failure, analyze the factors that foster resilient behaviors in rural entrepreneurship, and provide contexts that are resistant against changes for women. Practical implications Holding companies that specialize in agricultural development in Iran play an important role in improving women's entrepreneurial resilience. These companies could empower rural women to overcome barriers and apply new methods through educational and extension programs that are appropriate to changes in technology and the market. Originality/value This study presents the Lifespan Resilience Scale-Business as a native model for measuring the resilience of rural women’s businesses in Fars province of Iran.","PeriodicalId":46772,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Agricultural Education & Extension","volume":"29 1","pages":"75 - 98"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2021-10-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"43125304","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"教育学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"On-farm demonstration: enabling peer-to-peer learning","authors":"L. Sutherland, F. Marchand","doi":"10.1080/1389224X.2021.1959716","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/1389224X.2021.1959716","url":null,"abstract":"By means of its policy and supportive tools, the European Commission has undertaken numerous initiatives to increase the innovativeness of the agricultural sector, with the overall aim of making Europe’s farms more competitive, environmentally sustainable and socially responsible (European Commission 2019). Recognising the importance of learning processes to innovation, in the past decade the European Commission commissioned a series of projects addressing agricultural knowledge and innovation systems (AKIS): Solinsa (Moschitz et al. 2015); FarmPath (Sutherland et al. 2015); PROAKIS (Knierim et al. 2017); AgriSpin (Koutsouris and Zacosta 2020); Agrilink (Labarthe et al. 2018); and I2 Connect. This special issue presents recent European Commissionfunded research into on-farm demonstration, undertaken through the Horizon 2020 PLAID (Peer-to-peer learning: Accessing innovation through demonstration), AgriDemo-F2F (building an interactive agridemo-hub community: enhancing peer-to-peer learning), and NEFERTITI (Networking European Farms to Enhance Cross Fertilisation and Innovation Uptake through Demonstration) projects, jointly branded ‘FarmDemo’. The European Commission (2014, 3) defines a demonstration project/activity as a:","PeriodicalId":46772,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Agricultural Education & Extension","volume":"27 1","pages":"573 - 590"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2021-10-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"49404907","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"教育学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Y. Alexopoulos, E. Pappa, I. Perifanos, F. Marchand, H. Cooreman, L. Debruyne, H. Chiswell, J. Ingram, A. Koutsouris
{"title":"Unraveling relevant factors for effective on farm demonstration: the crucial role of relevance for participants and structural set up","authors":"Y. Alexopoulos, E. Pappa, I. Perifanos, F. Marchand, H. Cooreman, L. Debruyne, H. Chiswell, J. Ingram, A. Koutsouris","doi":"10.1080/1389224X.2021.1953550","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/1389224X.2021.1953550","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT Purpose The paper focuses on exploring the influence of structural and functional characteristics of demonstrations on their effectiveness. Design/Methodology In the framework of AgriDemo-F2F project, we analysed the responses to 345 post-demonstration questionnaires filled out by the attendees of 31 demo events held in 12 EU countries. Factor analysis was employed and on a subsequent step a linear regression to predict general effectiveness. Findings Results indicate that the very first steps in the organisation of on-farm demonstration are of critical importance for the successful delivery of their objectives, particularly decisions relating to relevance to farmers’ needs and the structure of the event. Moreover, the paper offers first evidence that when/if on-farm demonstrations are appropriately structured and delivered they can meet their objectives regardless of the status and strength of the corresponding AKIS. Practical implications Demonstration organisers should take special care with regard to the relevance of the topic and the group (demonstrator and attendees) as well as of the structure of the event. Theoretical implications The various elements influencing the success of on-farm demonstrations are examined together and ranked. Originality/Value The study generates important (theoretical and practical) insights concerning the success of a widely used technique of advisory/extension services, that is on-farm demonstrations, based on a large data-set from demonstration events through out Europe.","PeriodicalId":46772,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Agricultural Education & Extension","volume":"27 1","pages":"657 - 676"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2021-10-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"41707807","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"教育学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
H. Cooreman, L. Debruyne, Joke Vandenabeele, F. Marchand
{"title":"Power to the facilitated agricultural dialogue: an analysis of on-farm demonstrations as transformative learning spaces","authors":"H. Cooreman, L. Debruyne, Joke Vandenabeele, F. Marchand","doi":"10.1080/1389224X.2021.1969958","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/1389224X.2021.1969958","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT Purpose It remains a critical question how to support farmers to develop towards more sustainable practices. Earlier experiences reveal that on-farm demonstrations (OFDs) can be part of the answer. Therefore, we investigate OFDs as potential transformative learning spaces. Methodology We apply a mixed methods approach, using an observation tool, participant surveys and telephone interviews. We compare 15 different OFDs, divided into two groups: OFDs with and without facilitated dialogue. We investigated differences based on core inducing processes of transformative learning: disorienting dilemma and (self-)reflection. Additionally we investigated the adoption decision making process half a year after the OFD took place. Findings Participants in facilitated dialogue OFDs agreed significantly more on experiencing surprise, an indication of disorienting dilemma, and on having reflected and learned. Most mentioned adoption barriers are a lack of relevance for the specific situation and a need for more information. Most mentioned suggestions indicate a request for more real life application. Practical implications This research indicates that OFDs with facilitated dialogue can trigger more cognitive conflict and reflection processes of attendees, and thus support learning processes on (more) sustainable agricultural practices, as opposed to OFDs without deliberate dialogue facilitation. Theoretical implications Our study demonstrates that transformative learning theory can inform research on agricultural learning spaces, such as OFDs, on effective triggers to support learning and competencies towards more sustainable agriculture. Originality Based on rich empirical quantitative and qualitative data we reveal that facilitated dialogue enhances learning during OFDs, but this does not seem to be a common practice. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT","PeriodicalId":46772,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Agricultural Education & Extension","volume":"27 1","pages":"699 - 719"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2021-10-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"41532771","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"教育学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
K. Lamm, A. Lamm, K. Davis, Catherine E. Sanders, Alyssa N. Powell
{"title":"Perceptions of knowledge management capacity within extension services: an exploratory factor analysis approach","authors":"K. Lamm, A. Lamm, K. Davis, Catherine E. Sanders, Alyssa N. Powell","doi":"10.1080/1389224X.2021.1984956","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/1389224X.2021.1984956","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT Purpose The purpose was to analyze perceptions of knowledge management capacity in extension networks using an exploratory factor analysis approach. Design/methodology/approach The knowledge management content domain was analyzed for content validity, response process validity, internal structure validity, and consequential validity. A pilot version of an instrument was administered to extension network members (n = 122) associated with the Global Forum for Rural Advisory Services. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and measures of correlation and reliability were performed to determine the structure and internal consistency of the scale. Findings The observed structure was similar to the hypothesized structure. EFA indicates further factor analyses should be performed on the aggregate scale and proposed subscales. Practical Implications The resulting scale has the potential to serve as the basis for a reliable instrument for establishing perceptions of knowledge management capacity, supplementing needs assessment strategies, and informing organizational practices and policy which maximize these capacities in extension services. Theoretical Implications The resulting scale advances the activity theory framework by conceptualizing dimensions of knowledge management that facilitate development via social interaction. Originality/Value While various studies have been conducted to analyze the knowledge management capacities of international extension networks, the current study introduces preliminary results of an instrument to discretely quantify perceptions of knowledge management capacity in extension services.","PeriodicalId":46772,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Agricultural Education & Extension","volume":"29 1","pages":"53 - 74"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2021-10-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"47354650","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"教育学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}