Modified listening group method as a knowledge-sharing and learning mechanism in agricultural communities in the Philippines

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study is to explore if the modified listening group method that originated in Canada can enhance learning and sharing amongst farmers in a group learning setup. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study, participated in by 111 rice farmers, was conducted in Farmer Field School sites of PhilRice in the provinces of Agusan Del Sur, Bohol, Ilocos Norte, Negros Occidental, and Tarlac. It employed a quasi-experimental research design. Findings: Overall, we found that the modified listening group method enables learning of technical concepts and provides avenues for farmers to collectively forward their agenda to the government. Taking on a more critical approach, however, and moving this research forward, we argue that there is a need to scrutinise the types of knowledge shared and muted during the course of exchanges amongst farmers. Several questions relating to power relations in knowledge-sharing are advanced in this research. Theoretical Implications: This paper contributes to addressing the dearth of studies from developing countries on the use of listening groups in agricultural extension. Practical Implications: The study explores and offers a cost-effective strategy to enhance learning and sharing in a group learning setup amongst farmers. Originality/Value: The study explored how an old advisory method like the listening groups may be revived and modified to facilitate learning in a group learning setup.

Bringing sustainable agricultural intensification practices and technologies to scale through campaign-based extension approaches: lessons from Africa Soil Health Consortium

“…Also, Ragasa et al (2021) showed that radio programming had strong positive impacts on technology awareness, but a limited impact on actual adoption. However, modified listening groups linked to radio programmes have been found to enable learning of technical concepts, and offer useful platforms that strengthen social capital and cooperation among listeners (Pasiona et al, 2021;Ragasa et al, 2021). Therefore exposure to multiple sources of information that combine virtual environments and interactive techniques should be promoted to enhance learning and increase knowledge retention as reported elsewhere (Ibrahim & Al-Shara, 2007).…”

Two decades of rice research in Indonesia and the Philippines: A systematic review and research agenda for the social sciences

“…Aguilar et al (2021) examined the drivers of change, resilience, and potential trajectories of traditional rice-based agroecosystems in Kiangan, Ifugao. Pasiona et al (2021) found that using the "modified listening group method" enables farmers' peer-to-peer learning of technical concepts. Sociologist Shunnan Chiang (2020) examined the driving forces behind the transformation of the status of brown rice in the country.…”