Workshop 1.4

Convenors

Pieter Seuneke, Wageningen University, Rural Sociology Group
Thomas Lans, Wageningen University, Education and Competence Studies Group
Martin Mulder, Wageningen University, Education and Competence Studies Group

If you have any questions regarding this workshop, please turn directly to the convenors by sending an email.

Abstract

Crucial in the development of more sustainable farming systems is the need for more entrepreneurship. This workshop explores the learning processes related to the development of entrepreneurship and aims to stimulate a new debate which employs a more farm-level, work-related or situated approach to innovation and learning.

Description

Crucial in the development of more sustainable farming systems is the need for more entrepreneurship. This workshop aims to explore the learning processes related to the development of entrepreneurship. Also, the learning processes underlying the development of more sustainable farming systems have predominantly been approached as processes of collective learning and capacity building through learning and innovation networks. Although this approach is still relevant, it tends to neglect – and even contradict – the strongly work-related and situated nature of farmers’ (entrepreneurial) learning. In fact, it is widely accepted that entrepreneurs’ learning is largely taking place during daily practice and that the workplace potentially provides a powerful learning-environment. This specific approach stimulates new thoughts about farmers’ learning and raises questions regarding the role of advisory services towards stimulating entrepreneurship in agriculture. This workshop calls for papers examining the learning processes related to the development of more entrepreneurial farming systems and those employing a more farm-level, work-related or situated approach to innovation and learning. We welcome a variety of work focusing on entrepreneurial learning in relation to themes such as: the composition of the family farm, gender, the dynamics of the farm, succession, farmers’ changing work-environment, learning territories and so on, in the context of various entrepreneurial farming strategies (such as multifunctional agriculture). In addition, we particularly welcome contributions focusing on the family farm as a basis for learning and innovation with regard to the International Year of Family Farming.

Workshop-process

The workshop is based on a short paper session through oral presentations (5 minutes each), followed by an interactive roundtable discussion of 30-45 minutes among presenters and the audience. The participants are expected to formulate a number of propositions to fuel the discussion.