Moyer, D.David (author), Niemann Jr. J.B. (author), and School of Natural Resources and Institute for Environmental Studies, University of Wisconsin, Madison; Department of Landscape Architecture and Institute for Environmental Studeis, University of Wisconsin, Madison
Format:
Journal article
Publication Date:
1991
Published:
USA
Location:
Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Box: 100 Document Number: C08513
Evans, INTERPAKS, Using the "dissemination and utilization of knowledge" concept from Havelock, knowledge flows are viewed from a systems point of view. The agricultural knowledge system (AKS) consists of three major subsystems: the research subsystem as the generator of knowledge, the dissemination subsystem as its transmitter, and the user subsystem as its integrator into the stock of agricultural practices. Proper functioning of the AKS depends upon the solution of six functional problems: need identification, generation of knowledge, operationalization, dissemination, utilization, and evaluation of experiences. Discusses organizational issues in view of the three subsystems and the flow of knowledge through these organizations.
search through journal, The responsibility and tasks of a national agricultural information system (NAIS) is discussed with emphasis on the Ministry of Agriculture Library in Jamaica. The nature of the institutional and interinstitutional infrastructure for agricultural activities; lack of professional staff; lack of awareness of the need for information by potential users; lack of provision for collecting locally generated material; and lack of skills in documentation on the part of agriculturalists are identified as factors hindering the coordination and progress of a NAIS in Jamaica. The development of the National Information Plan; availability of training at the professional and paraprofessional level within the island; cooperation and commitment among librarians at formal and informal levels; and the possibility of approaching funding agencies are described as advantages to a NAIS. Recommendations are made concluding that the problems cannot be fully addressed by librarians without the support of user organizations and there is a definite need for librarians to be active in the problem solving process. (author).
