Open Days and Demonstrations

Question 1

What is the contribution of farm open days and demonstrations for farmers relative to other knowledge transfer approaches? Outline three aspects.

Answer 1

• Result – Show the difference between Old vs New
• Method – Teach a new Skill
• Action – Challenge policy/advocate for change

Question 2

Outline the four main requirements for a successful farm demonstration

Answer 2

• Facilitated Dialogue
• Real Life Context
• Social Interaction
• Hands-on Experiences

Question 3

Explain the three aspects of peer learning that are associated with farm demonstrations?

Answer 3

• Experiential learning – engages with learners in direct experience and focused reflection in order to increase and develop skills.
• Transformative learning – the process of making meanings from one’s experiences in which learners become aware and critical of their own and other’s assumptions. Necessary substantive farm system changes.
• Network Learning – Demonstration events are opportunities for social interaction and establishing new relationship with other farmers and actors.

Question 4

Outline six key factors to consider when preparing a method demonstration?

Answer 4

1. Identify practical Objective
2. Have everything ready
3. Job/Task analysis
4. Prepare the Audience
5. Teach/Present the practical skill
6. Each participant practices under supervision (individual, groups)

Question 5

Outline five key factors to consider when selecting a site and host farmer for a demonstration on a farm?

Answer 5

• Accessible location
• Representative of population and typical situation
• Host interested and happy to host and participate appropriate
• Good working relationship between host and organizer of event

Question 6

What is Peyton’s (1998) 4 stage approach to teaching a skill?

Answer 6

Stage 1 – Demonstration of the skill at normal speed with little or no explanation
Stage 2 – Repetition of the skill with full explanation, encouraging the learner to ask questions
Stage 3 – The demonstrator performs the skill for the third time with the leaner providing the explanation of each step and being questioned on key issues. The demonstrator can provide the necessary corrections. The step may be repeated several times until the demonstrator is satisfied with the learner fully understanding.
Stage 4 – The learner now carries out the skill under close supervision describing each step before it is taken.