Selecting methods of agricultural extension to support diverse adoption pathways: a review and case studies

This paper presents results from a review of methods agricultural extension, including the evidence for effectiveness in supporting farm practice change, how they affect change process, and critical success factors involved. Agricultural scientists face challenges aligning their research outputs to process on farm. These are exacerbated by funding environment research, development, extension (RD&E), complexity adoption privatisation commercialisation advisory services. To assist navigating these challenges, structured literature was conducted, examining following: group-learning/peer-to-peer; technology development; training; information provision; one-on-one advice/coaching; e-extension; co-innovation; best management practice; social marketing. In addition, two case studies outlining application combinations context feeding system Australian dairy industry, effects, described. While across reviewed strongest effect small group-learning one consulting, it that resulted larger effects (for example, or profitability), which credited addressed human dimensions process. Case sector found influenced collaborating with private sector, being directly involved on-farm trials demonstrations, approaches help past research. role enabled investment programs RD&E rather than discreet experiments, designs incorporated adoption. synthesis demonstrates need be proactive providing guidance farmers where access source related work, engage broad range advisor types associated field, champion in-field and/or demonstrations active participants collaborative RD&E.