Publication
Title
Power to the facilitated agricultural dialogue : an analysis of on-farm demonstrations as transformative learning spaces
Author
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. [GRAPHICS]
Language
English
Source (journal)
The journal of agricultural education and extension. / Agricultural University Wageningen. - Wageningen :
Publication
Abingdon : Routledge journals, taylor & francis ltd , 2021
ISSN
1389-224X
DOI
10.1080/1389224X.2021.1969958
Volume/pages
27 :5 (2021) , p. 699-719
ISI
000692573200001
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
Full text (open access)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Research group
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 05.10.2021
Last edited 25.12.2024
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