Peer learning and technology adoption in a digital farmer-to-farmer network

• 成果类型: Article
• 署名作者: Lasdun, Violet; Harou, Aurelie P.; Magomba, Chris; Guerena, David
• 署名单位: University of London; London School Economics & Political Science; McGill University; Sokoine University of Agriculture
• 刊物名称: JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENT ECONOMICS
• ISSN/ISSBN: 0304-3878
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jdeveco.2025.103496
• 发表日期: 2025
• 关键词: Digital peer-to-peer farmer extension; Information Communication Technology; technology adoption; Peer learning; tanzania; Regenerative agriculture

摘要

Information constraints rank high among barriers to agricultural technology adoption among small-scale farmers, particularly for complex bundles of complementary practices. Information communication technologies are emerging to extend the reach of agricultural training, with potential to deliver information through mobile and smartphones at little or no cost to farmers. In this study, we develop a low-cost digital extension platform that facilitates peer-to-peer learning through SMS-based chat groups on basic feature phones. Using a randomized controlled trial, we evaluate its effectiveness in promoting the adoption of beneficial agricultural practices compared to a one-way SMS extension program. We measure strong positive effects of treatment on adoption of practices discussed in the chat groups, increasing intercropping and organic fertilizer production by 11-18 and 15 percentage points, respectively, suggesting that a simple group discussion forum can be a powerful addition to digital extension initiatives. However, chat group participation declined over the course of the study, underscoring the challenges of designing technological interventions that sustain user engagement.