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Research Articles (Information Studies)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10413/7230

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Browsing Research Articles (Information Studies) by Author "Munyua, Hilda Mantema."

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    The applicability of the major social science paradigms to the study of the agricultural knowledge and information systems of small-scale farmers.
    (University of KwaZulu-Natal., 2012) Munyua, Hilda Mantema.; Stilwell, Christine.
    The social sciences offer a rich array of paradigms within which to locate agricultural knowledge and information systems (AKIS) research. This article provides an overview of the major paradigms in the social sciences, identifying those which offer a lens through which the AKISs of small-scale farmers can be viewed. It is based on a review and analysis of the paradigms, perspectives and approaches that are appropriate for studying different facets of an AKIS. These systems are complex by nature but Social constructivism, Phenomenology, Interpretive and Participatory paradigms make possible a pluralistic and compatibilist approach that provides the necessary logic and harmony for such a study. A systems approach, mixed methods methodology and multiple data collection methods can be used to improve understanding of AKISs of this type. A pragmatic paradigmatic stance is recommended to guide the design for a comprehensive study of the AKISs of small-scale farmers in developing countries.
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    A theoretical framework for the study of agricultural knowledge and information systems in a developing country.
    (UNISA, 2013) Munyua, Hilda Mantema.; Stilwell, Christine.
    With poverty and hunger growing in sub-Saharan Africa, increased agricultural productivity is urgently required. Agricultural extension services should improve their delivery to those small-scale farmers who play a key role in production. There is a need to build on previous research focusing on the integration and sharing of knowledge from different sources, and into the role of small-scale farmers in an agricultural knowledge and information system (AKIS). Studying an AKIS requires a broad theoretical framework to explain its different facets comprehensively. This article reviews perspectives, theories, concepts and models for studying the AKIS of small-scale farmers. A critical review and analysis of the literature, it offers a holistic theoretical framework to underpin research, to ensure a deep understanding of the complexities of the AKIS of such farmers in a developing country.