Review of AID experience with farming systems research and extension projects

FSR/E projects have provided opportunities for developing country professionals to acquire training and field experience in this new approach to research. However, most projects have not had the impact on technology development and transfer or institutionalization of FSR/E as had been assumed in project designs. This report, based on a case study review of evaluations of 12 A.I.D.-funded projects, synthesizes the Agency's experience with FSR/E from the mid-1970's to the mid-1980's and assesses the impact of these projects on agricultural development. Major sections of the report overview FSR/E, summarize project experiences, provide lessons learned, and discuss the approach's future in A.I.D. projects. FSR/E's performance has been affected by several key constraints, including a lack of the following: (1) a problem solving approach; (2) effective collaboration across disciplines; (3) links of research with extension; (4) consensus on methodology; (5) stakeholder understanding of FSR/E; (6) agricultural policy and strategy defining FSR/E's role in research and extension; (7) staffing of projects with trained personnel; and (8) government funding to meet recurrent costs. The report concludes that while the FSR/E concept has not been well understood or carried out by project implementers and A.I.D. management, agricultural projects that seek to strengthen technology development and transfer can benefit by using the concept more effectively. (Author abstract, modified)