APSPRACH: PLTTIN A CRS


 The Farming Systems Research
and Extension (FSR/E) approach
begins with the recognition that
farmers develop rational, complex
production systems that suit
their own environments and
needs. Experience has shown
that the highly focused
commodity-oriented approach
has difficulty in developing new
technologies which farmers
readily accept. The two
approaches commodity
research and FSR/E differ in
many components (see accom-
panying chart) but are
complementary rather than
competitive.
 FSR/E is very dependent on the
commodity research programs
for specialized knowledge on
component technologies. In turn,
commodity researchers gain
valuable insight and feedback on
farmer circumstances and prefer-
ences from the FSR/E section.
Overall, the FSR/E methodology
provides a means of developing a
client-focused research program
which merges farmer knowledge
and priorities with advanced
technology to build upon existing
farming systems.


HowS E Differs fro Commodity Resea


SCommodity Research


Approach:



Objective:




Participants:



Experimental
Methods:





Evaluation:


FSR/E


Multidisciplinary (social
and technical sciences)
and holistic in scope.

Multiple objectives which
reflect problems,
opportunities, and goals
of the farmer.

Researchers,
extensionists, and
farmers.

Research often conducted
on farmers' fields, with
non-experimental
variables often set at
farmers' levels.


Complex. Based upon:
* biological feasibility
* economic viability
Labor requirements
* risk
* systems compatibility
* tastes and preferences

Intervention adapted for
a particular target group
and ready for
dissemination.


Final Output: