PR - Preliminary Assessment Of The Communication Mechanisms Used In The Virtual Academy Of The Semi-arid Tropics (vasat) Project

Information and Communication Technologies for Development (ICT4D) have shared preoccupation developing specific mechanisms and tools, considering their applicability, outcome, and impact. An analysis of an eight-year extension project in 21 villages in India suggests that the development of a multimedia approach to knowledge sharing to include extension education, considering both the local farmers´ organization and the context, brings about good results. Such outcomes are related not only to the technological frame, but also to economic, social, and ecological issues. A qualitative research taking into account farmers and local peoples´ opinions using a theoretical approach of Reflective Appraisal of Programs (RAP) presents some of the implications and lessons learned that can be adopted in the ICT4D projects.

Keywords: agriculture, multimedia, information and communication technologies for development (ICT4D), extension, knowledge sharing and innovation