Examines adaptation as a dynamic diffusion of innovations process in which adopters change innovations according to their individual needs. Adaptation may be explained by three factors: (a) the differing interpretation of innovation components by individual adopters, (b) an individual's level of adopter innovativeness or readiness to accept change and [c] the generative learning process whereby an individual relates new information prior knowledge and experience. Adaptation may occur unconsciously at the beginning of the diffusion process. Those who study the adaptation process should begin at the initial awareness state when potential adopters are forming their opinions and ideas about an innovation. Author uses an example involving a group of Kalahari bushmen first considering a sample of soft drink that they are told can quench thirst.
Joshi, Pushkar Lal (author / Division of Economics and Extension, I.C.A.R., Central Arid Zone Research Institute, Jodhpur (Rajasthan), India) and Division of Economics and Extension, I.C.A.R., Central Arid Zone Research Institute, Jodhpur (Rajasthan), India
Format:
Journal article
Publication Date:
1977-08
Published:
India
Location:
Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Box: 42 Document Number: B05005
INTERPAKS, Reviews how the agricultural extension agent has dealt with the process of technology transfer and the categories of farmers affected by the diffusion process. Discusses CIMMYT's model of grouping rural populations into homogenous target categories to develop appropriate technologies and the influence it has had on the process of technology development. Points out that strategies intended to assist small farmers depend as much on the creation of appropriate opportunities as on the creation of appropriate technologies.
