Role of collaborative learning in climate change adaptation among smallholder farmers in Kiboga District

Abstract

Despite collaborative learning playing a significant role in climate change adaptation process, few studies have documented collaborative learning forms, practices, motivating factors for collaborative learning and its benefits in climate change adaptation. The aim of this study was to contribute to a better understanding of collaborative learning and its role in climate change adaptation among smallholder farmers. Across-sectional survey was conducted using semi-structured questionnaire to collect data from 265 randomly selected small-holder farming households followed by key informant interviews and focus group discussions. Social network analysis (SNA) was used to map the existing collaborative learning networks for climate change adaptation. Binary logistic regression, Principal component analysis, Chi-square test of association, descriptive statistics and Ordinal logistic regression were applied for data analysis. The findings of the study revealed that informal collaborative learning was the most dominant form among smallholder farmers in the study area. The most collaborative learning practices included peer to peer engagements (91.1%), field visits (79.5%) and agricultural trainings (97.1). Surprisingly, a small number of smallholder farmers were involved in formal collaborative learning practices such as agricultural symposia (0.7%), agricultural workshops (2.2%), seminars (2.2%) and public meetings (2.9%). The study revealed five collaborative learning networks including; water and pasture management practices, soil and water conservation practices, improved animal breeds, indigenous pest and diseases management practices, and indigenous animal breeding. The motivating factors to participate in collaborative learning for climate change adaptation from this study were; acquiring knowledge and information about adaptation strategies, accessing agricultural services and resources, awareness of climate change impacts and desire to adapt, social networks, trust and transparency of participants. The study established that collaborative learning has improved understanding of climate change and its impacts however, there is an insignificant improvement in adaptation planning and implementation of adaptation strategies among smallholder farmers. Further studies should explore strategies and approaches to strengthen collaboration and knowledge sharing among academic institutions, researchers and smallholder farmers in collaborative learning for climate change adaptation. Government should develop policies and plans that support institutions to participate in collaborative learning for climate change adaptation with smallholder farmers.