Now more than ever producers need to stay connected to important research outcomes and science backed information to make sound decisions.
In many instances these timely decisions can make the difference between acting in the right window for a bumper crop or taking a hit to the back pocket from reduced yields.
A new online community based approach is ensuring the vital link between research and extension is maintained and that primary producers continue to get access to the credible information they need to make their operations more productive and sustainable.
At the heart of this approach is a Community of Practice (CoP) – a group of subject matter experts willing to formally network and collaborate together to share knowledge with users to build a sense of community around a common goal.
Bringing together Australia’s leading experts, these CoPs meet regularly to discuss current issues, local insights and research results to determine where gaps lie and respond to what information is needed in response to the season.
This information is presented as articles, videos or webinars exploring issues and link to other references, presentations or tools of use, and are delivered through an online platform.
The platform provides a place for experts, growers and advisers to interact, with growers able to pose questions directly to the experts or engage in discussions on the associated social media.
These discussions ensure rural interest groups have access to relevant and credible information needed to respond to emerging issues or potential threats.
These Communities of Practice and their associated online platforms represent a significant development in agricultural extension.
A number of CoPs focused on varied subject areas such as crop nutrition and extension practice are already operating successfully with more in development.
This extension model has run successfully in the USA for more than 20 years.
Crop nutrition and field crop diseases CoPs have been active since 2014, demonstrating this style of online communication and interaction can be adapted to the Australian industry.
With producers increasingly turning to online information sources, CoPs have an important role in coordinating sources of information and tools, and streamlining the task of finding the right information.
CoPs can deliver:
- The right information – evidence based backed by science and reviewed by Australian experts;
- At the right time – the time of season when decisions are made;
- In the right place – online, social, easy to access;
- For the right people – those interested in adopting best practice;
- A chance to keep communities updated on emerging issues; and
- A chance to collaborate across organisations, borders and areas of expertise.
Tocal is partnering with ExtensionAUS and GRDC Communities platforms housing a number of CoPs.
- Visit: extensionaus.com.au or communities.grdc.com.au
