INTERPAKS, Offers an analysis of the conventional literature on adoption practices and adoptive categories. Examines the theoretical basis, and the empirical validity of adoption categories, as well as the extension worker's reliance on adoption categories for the dissemination of information in development activities and in research. Observation has led to the conclusion that adopter categories which can be empirically identified have been erroneously used in practice while the theory on which they are based is questionable. Draws attention to some of the dysfunctional effects of this largest grouping and the trickle down strategy used in extension for rural development. The analysis calls for a different approach to the categorization of the farming community. The main aim is to start with the people and then categorize the social system according to some important variables which will result in a homogeneous target group being isolated for specific extension activities.
INTERPAKS, Proposes that before an innovation can be judged as superior to existing technology, its relevance should be jointly evaluated by researchers and farmers by testing the proposed practice in a farm environment. Using a proposed maize technology as an example, it is demonstrated how site-related and management variables can be used to quantify the factors influencing actual yields on farmers' fields. Similarly, economic and management analysis of the practice provides an estimate of the probability of the farmer being better off by using the technology. The integrated analysis of the practice provide insights for the design of problem-oriented research projects.
Kabore, Joseph (author) and Director, Services Agricoles, Upper Volta
Format:
Conference paper
Publication Date:
1980
Published:
India
Location:
Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Box: 95 Document Number: C07403
Notes:
INTERPAKS, In: V. Kumble (ed.). Proceedings of the International Symposium on Development and Transfer of Technology for Rainfed Agriculture and the SAT Farmer, August 28 - September 1, 1979. Patancheru, Andhra Pradesh, India: International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics, 1980. p. 231-233., Identifies the need for a code or framework for the transfer of technology. Discusses the necessity of such a framework to strengthen the capacity of developing countries for organizing and receiving new techniques and improving access to technology at prices all can afford. Identifies the establishment and development of facilities for technical and in-service training in the countries themselves as prerequisites for the efficient and durable transfer to technology. Notes that new technologies must be assimilated, modified, and adapted to conditions peculiar to each country. Discusses fact that agricultural research carried out in developed countries involves means of production that have nothing in common with those of the small farmer of Upper Volta. Stresses that scientists are needed who can assimilate the people's everyday problems and work out a realistic research program that will raise the technological level of the farmer.
Binswanger, Hans P. (author) and Ryan, James G. (author)
Format:
Conference paper
Publication Date:
1980
Published:
India
Location:
Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Box: 95 Document Number: C07419
Notes:
INTERPAKS, In: V. Kumble, ed., Proceedings of the International Symposium on Development and Transfer of Technology for Rainfed Agriculture and the SAT Farmer, 28 August - 1 September 1979, Patancheru, Andhra Pradesh, India: International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics, 1980. p. 57-67., Discusses ICRISAT's evaluation of socioeconomic constraints to agricultural development. Identifies purpose of the efforts to better formulate research priorities and to improve the efficiency of "marketing" new technologies to farmers. Lists constraints, including variations in population densities, heterogeneity of semi-arid tropics resource endowments, role of risk in farmer's decision-making, marketing institutions, human institutional requirements, and efficiency and equity concerns in research resource allocation. Notes its necessity for close collaboration among scientists from many disciplines.
