Peer learning and technology adoption in a digital farmer-to-farmer network

Lasdun, Violet, Harou, Aurélie, Magomba, Chris and Guereña, Davíd (2025) Peer learning and technology adoption in a digital farmer-to-farmer network. Journal of Development Economics. ISSN 0304-3878 (In Press)

Text (Lasdun et al 2025) - Accepted Version Pending embargo until 1 January 2100. Available under License Creative Commons Attribution. Download (742kB)

Abstract

Information constraints rank high among barriers to agricultural technology adoption among small-scale farmers, particularly for complex bundles of complementary practices. Information communication technologies are emerging to extend the reach of agricultural training, with potential to deliver information through mobile and smartphones at little or no cost to farmers. In this study, we develop a low-cost digital extension platform that facilitates peer-to-peer learning through SMS-based chat groups on basic feature phones. Using a randomized controlled trial, we evaluate its effectiveness in promoting the adoption of beneficial agricultural practices compared to a one-way SMS extension program. We measure strong positive effects of treatment on adoption of practices discussed in the chat groups, increasing intercropping and organic fertilizer production by 11-18 and 15 percentage points, respectively, suggesting that a simple group discussion forum can be a powerful addition to digital extension initiatives. However, chat group participation declined over the course of the study, underscoring the challenges of designing technological interventions that sustain user engagement.

Item Type:	Article
Additional Information:	© 2025 The Author(s)
Divisions:	Geography & Environment
Subjects:	S Agriculture > S Agriculture (General) T Technology > T Technology (General)
JEL classification:	O - Economic Development, Technological Change, and Growth > O1 - Economic Development > O12 - Microeconomic Analyses of Economic Development O - Economic Development, Technological Change, and Growth > O1 - Economic Development > O13 - Agriculture; Natural Resources; Energy; Environment; Other Primary Products Q - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics > Q1 - Agriculture > Q16 - R&D; Agricultural Technology; Agricultural Extension Services
Date Deposited:	01 Apr 2025 09:06
Last Modified:	02 Apr 2025 10:45
URI:	http://eprints.lse.ac.uk/id/eprint/127762

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