This spring, a diverse and dynamic group of 30 participants embarked on a ten-week journey to explore the complexities of scaling agricultural innovations for social transformation.
This remote course, led by Dr. Erin McGuire, Director of the Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Horticulture based at the University of California-Davis, took place from April 3rd to June 5th. It brought together experts and learners from around the globe to explore the complexities of socially inclusive agricultural innovation systems (AIS) and agricultural research for development (AR4D).
Course Objectives and Impact
This course aimed to empower AR4D actors by providing a comprehensive understanding of scaling agricultural innovations with a focus on social differentiation and transformation. Participants critically analyzed various approaches, gaining insights into their benefits and limitations to choose the most effective methods for their contexts. By focusing on gender and other relevant diversity among innovation users, participants were able to anticipate unintended negative consequences, ensuring more successful and inclusive scaling.
The integration of social theory with scaling strategies allowed participants to develop recommendations for future tools and approaches, promoting socially responsible scaling of agricultural innovations. The impact of the course was multifaceted: participants were introduced to practical tools for social inclusion, such as GenderUp and various AIS frameworks, fostering a sense of community among professionals dedicated to scaling for social transformation.
Through group projects and assignments, participants applied theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios, ensuring they could translate their learning into actionable strategies within their organizations. This practical approach not only enhanced their understanding but also provided them with the necessary tools to drive positive social change within their respective organizations.
Course Overview
The primary goal of this course was to build the foundation for an approach that assists researchers in developing and curating innovations with social outcomes in mind, emphasizing the importance of social differentiation when innovating and scaling. The course provided both theoretical background and practical tools for AR4D researchers and practitioners.
Participants engaged with a variety of topics, including:
Topic | Lecturers and Organizations | Description |
Introduction to Scaling and Development in Agriculture | Lennart Woltering (The Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT), Erin McGuire (UC Davis) | Participants were introduced to the landscape of agricultural research for development and the basics of scaling concepts and methodologies. |
Considering Social Differentiation in Innovation and Scaling | Anne Rietveld (The Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT), Erin McGuire (UC Davis) | Exploration of social concepts, unintended consequences, and the GenderUp tool, providing insights into integrating social considerations in scaling efforts. |
Introduction to Agricultural Innovation Systems (AIS) | Maria Boa Alvarado (Cornell University) | Covered the evolution and practical application of AIS theory, highlighting successful innovations and the representation of diverse groups. |
Innovating and Scaling for Social Transformation | Cees Leeuwis (Wageningen University and Research) | Discussed social interactions, diversity, and the concept of social transformation within agricultural innovation. |
Upstream AR4D Effects on Downstream Impacts | Erin McGuire (UC Davis) | Examined upstream and downstream dynamics, biases in research outcomes, and the realization of equity within AIS. |
Theory to Practice, Applied Conceptual Frameworks and Methods | Hale Ann Tufan (Cornell University) | Provided insights into applying AIS theory in the field, with a focus on gender dynamics and feminist theory. |
Applying Social Theory to AIS and Scaling | Jessica Marter-Kenyon (University of Georgia), Michel Kabirigri (UC Davis) | Delved into the importance of social theory in AIS and AR4D, employing both qualitative and quantitative methods. |
Choosing AIS Frameworks and Tools + Applying Social Theory | Eva Marina Valencia Leñero (Utrecht University, CIMMYT) | Discussed AIS frameworks, social inclusion challenges, and equity analysis. |
Outcome-based Innovation and Scaling | Millicent Liani (International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, USAID), Erin McGuire (UC Davis) | Explored outcome-based scaling, adapting innovation practices, and the necessary tools for effective scaling. |
Student Engagement and Idea Development
The Improved Agricultural Innovation System (AIS) frameworks and Agriculture Research for Development (AR4D) tools were presented by six groups. Conceptual frameworks and tools included Multi-level Perspective Model, Multi Stakeholder Platforms, USAID Product Life Cycle, CGIAR Scaling Readiness, and GenderUp, with overarching themes around including more consideration on power dynamics, intersectionality, social differentiations, and decolonization. See the provided examples.
In Figure 1, Ojong Baa, Esther Kihoro, Anthony Esabu, Hager Ebeid present on considering the combination of Scaling Tools GenderUp and CGIAR Scaling Readiness.
Figure 1: Strengths, weaknesses, and Implications of AIS Framework
In Figure 2, Ravishankar Manickam, Sagar Koirala, Arnab Chakraborty, and Sujata Nepal present on how social theories can be operationalized within Multi-Stakeholder Platforms.
Figure 2: Operationalizing social theories within MSPs
The final projects were given feedback from Expert Commentators Rafael Flor, from the Gates Foundation, Mary Ann Sayoc from EastWest Seeds, Mark Husianga from United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and Hazel Malapit from International Food and Policy Research Institute (IFPRI).
Reflections and Feedback
Participants valued the course for its challenging content, diverse perspectives, and practical tools for integrating social inclusion into agricultural innovation. Here are some reflections:
~The class went well beyond my expectations in challenging my status quo and reigniting my passion for social transformation ~
~Exposure to diverse expert insights and the sense of being part of a growing community of practice was invaluable ~
~The well-thought-out readings and assignments provided practical tools for my work in innovation and scaling ~
Suggestions for improvement included increasing networking opportunities, enhancing class collaboration, and continuing engagement through blogs and webinars. Notably, at least 20 participants will remain engaged by authoring papers based on ideas developed during the course.
Conclusion
The "Innovating and Scaling for Social Transformation in International Food Systems 2024" course was a catalyst for change. By providing AR4D actors with the tools, knowledge, and community support needed to drive socially inclusive innovations, the course laid the groundwork for significant, positive impacts on global food systems. Participants left empowered to be effective change agents, ready to create a more equitable and sustainable future.
Help us keep this work going! If you’re interested in supporting speakers or technical support for the class please contact us at horticulture@ucdavis.edu. If you are interested in next year’s class, please enter your information here.
Class Participants
Class participants were from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, and held varying degrees of expertise and experience. Participants included:
Participants: Grant Budding, Katie Roett, Gina Rico Mendez, Tania Casaya, Julia Ros Cuellar, Lilian Nkengla, Rosani Matoso Silva, Dorcas Sanginga Alame, Bruno Tran, Olariike Adeyeye, Shaimaa Asami, Nicole Ercoli, Hanna Ewell, Demi Divinagracia, Beauty Ezinne Japhet, Esther Kihoro, Ojong Enokenwa Baa, Hager Ebeid, Anthony Esabu, Ravishankar Manickam, Sagar Koirala, Arnab Chakraborty, Sujata Nepal
The course was supported by Kristen Becker, Project Manager, and Katheryn Gregerson, Graduate Student Researcher, of the Horticulture Innovation Lab. Their guidance ensured that students felt supported, guest lecturers were prepared, and the course ran smoothly overall.