The agricultural knowledge transformation cycle

The agricultural knowledge transformation approach assumes a multi-step process in which knowledge is gradually transformed until it reaches a stage at which end users (farmers) can solve a problem, which was the trigger for the knowledge search and research. This process is assumed to be cyclic, with a number of decision points, at which a proposed solution is further developed and finally adopted or recycled for renewed investigation. The main stations in the agricultural knowledge transformation cycle are: problem identification; search for relevant basic, scientific and indigenous knowledge; applied (technological) research and development; localized adaptive R&D, which includes economic feasibility studies; ecological and economic sustainability assessment; choice of optimal means of communication. A case study shows how the agricultural knowledge transformation cycle functioned in two cases in which the agro-ecological conditions were similar, but the socio-cultural background was different. -Author