OAR@ICRISATPreliminary Assessment of the Communication Mechanisms Used in the Virtual Academy of the Semi-Arid Tropics (VASAT) ProjectM MAlbicetteauthorR PMulaauthorRNareshauthorKiranYadavauthorSmall and marginalized farmers of many developing countries in semi-arid tropics depend primarily on extension services for information. Information and Communication Technologies for Development (ICT4D) have shared actions to develop specific mechanisms and tools, to consider how they are applied, and to assess their outcomes and impact. Analysis of an eight-year extension project in 21 villages of Andhra Pradesh, India suggests that the development of a multimedia approach, which considers both the local farmers´ organization and 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 study which takes into account the opinions of farmers and local people using the theoretical approach of Reflective Appraisal of Programs (RAP) is presented. Implications and lessons learned are considered for the project to be continued or for application in further ICT4D projects based upon the transfer of innovations and knowledge.Information ScienceAgriculture-Farming, Production, Technology, Economics2013Article

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