Rice postharvest learning alliance in Cambodia: comparison of assumptions and implementation of a network approach. Issue 4 (1st October 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Flor, Rica Joy; Leeuwis, Cees; Maat, Harro; Gummert, Martin
• Is Part Of: Journal of development effectiveness. Volume 8:Issue 4(2016)
• Page Start: 489
• Page End: 507
• Publication Date: 2016-10-01
• Subjects: Learning alliance -- networks -- action theories -- innovation -- rice postharvest -- theories of change; Economic development -- Periodicals; Developing countries -- Economic conditions -- Periodicals; Economic development; Economic history; Developing countries; Periodicals; 338.91724
• DOI: 10.1080/19439342.2016.1231705
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1943-9342

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Research projects employ the learning alliance (LA) approach but there is scepticism that its rhetoric is not evident in practice. The authors examined a case of an implemented LA, comparing its outcomes with assumptions from the project and its conceptual design to evaluate the implementation of an LA. Data were from interviews and network maps of actors involved, as well as farmers and town-level actors in Battambang and Pursat, Cambodia. An LA approach can promote actor–network processes that target social, technical, and institutional reordering. Assumptions about the approach, however, may lead projects to emphasize scaling out and direct efforts away from processes that enable innovation.