More than a pretty picture – Ag-tech innovating on-farm research

Abstract

Previous research has shown the importance and power of participatory approaches in agricultural research. Participatory learning action research (PLAR) is a combination of action learning and action research processes (Hamilton & National Landcare, 1996). Fundamental to the concepts of PLAR is that information is not knowledge and that knowledge cannot be transferred; rather it is created by individuals organising information they perceive in relation to their existing cognitive structures (Anderson, 2000; Matlin, 2002; Valsiner & Veer, 2000). On-farm research (OFR) where growers have input into research topics and questions and implement the trial is complementary to PLAR especially in its efforts to engage growers as part of the research team.
With the development of ‘Ag-tech’ has come mass generation of data and information. Yield monitors, satellite imagery, electromagnetic (EM) surveys and near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) are not new technologies; all have been in commercial use for at least 30 years. More recently, these technologies have been developed for agricultural applications. Today, high spatial resolution observations from these technologies are readily available to growers. However, the masses of data that can be collected from Ag-tech has no value to growers unless they can utilise it to build conceptual and procedural knowledge. Hence, the value of Ag-tech to growers is realised only by how it is used.
Ag-tech presents a unique opportunity to enrich OFR datasets with masses of data. In efforts to improve learnings and knowledge generated from PLAR activities as part of the national Grains Research and Development Corporation initiative, RiskWi$e, we have designed and implemented OFR trials across Queensland specifically to deploy Ag-tech as learning tool. Growers are now interpreting their own trial data with the assistance of Ag-tech which is improving the accuracy of conclusions and translatability of outcomes to growers beyond their own farm gate.