Farm demonstration networks as learning environments
Farm Demonstration Networks are peer advisory farmer groups set up with the aim of sharing knowledge about sustainable farming practices. Within the current study a “Learning Environment” framework is developed based on literature review to investigate and improve the setup, organization, and facilitation of such networks. The framework also functions as a structure for evaluation of both the educational process and impact of such networks. Four interlinked dimensions are proposed within the framework: learning objectives, instruction, physical learning space, and socio-cultural context. An exploration of the framework was done via 21 interviews with existing networks in Europe. This led to structural improvements and inspiration for the learning design of future Farm Demonstration Networks.
Authors
- Lucy A. Bates (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4746-3312)
- Jo Bijttebier (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5598-2801)
- Cynthia Giagnocavo (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9349-9581)
- Simon Lox
- Laure Triste (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6887-2687)
- Hilde Wustenberghs (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0007-1972-1771)
- Seerp Wigboldus (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6116-4100)
- Juliette Young (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8522-0883)
- Piet Van den Bossche (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4459-7008)
Institutions
- University of Antwerp (BE)
- Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation et l'Environnement (FR)
- Forestry Commission (ZW)
- University of Almería (ES)
- Wageningen University & Research (NL)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems
- Published
- 2025-06-28
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1080/21683565.2025.2520620
- Primary Topic
- Diverse Educational Innovations Studies
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00