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.
Explores the interrationships between the interdisciplinary specialties of the diffusion of innovations and technology transfer, using bibliometric methods.
Traces the study of knowledge utilization through three waves. First (1920-1960) involved studies about the diffusion of agricultural innovations to farmers. The second (1960-1980) emphasized both the dissemination and use of innovations emerging from research and demonstration activities, and innovation adoption by organizations as well as individuals. The interlude (1980s) featured sharply reduced federal support for research about knowledge utilization. The third wave (1990-present) showed greater emphasis on federal partnerships with state and local entities to improve health, education, and human services. Interest also increased in policy, research and programmatic activities regarding knowledge utilization.
Rice, Ronald E. (author), Rogers, Everett M. (author), and Institute of Communications Research, Stanford University; Institute of Communications Research, Stanford University
Format:
Journal article
Publication Date:
1980-06
Published:
USA
Location:
Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Box: 55 Document Number: C01306
Analysis of the experience of the Grameen (rural) Bank of Bangladesh. It "represents a radical institutional innovation because it provides collateral-free loans and various social services to poor Bangladeshis yet maintains a loan recovery rate of 98 percent." Founded as an action research project in 1976, The Grameen Bank has diffused to 50 of the nation's 64 districts and has more than one million members, 92 percent of whom are women.
