Adoption of technologies and practices in agricultural production systems in Jinotega, Nicaragua

Abstract

The adoption of agricultural technologies and practices is determined by the socio-economic conditions and characteristics of production systems. The main aim was to identify factors and extension activities that facilitate adoption of agricultural technologies and practices. This research was conducted in seven municipalities at Department of Jinotega, located in Northern Nicaragua, Central America. The sample size was determined by calculating finite populations of a universe of 1 470 small scale producers, those who have worked in collaboration with the Nicaraguan Institute of Agricultural Technology, universities and other institutions which have been dedicated to the development of agricultural sector and which have been part of processes of participatory research and extension. The evaluated variables were producer´s age and education level, number of children, land´s ownership, in how many agricultural training and technology dissemination methods has been involved; all of them in relation to the level of implementation and adoption of technologies and practices. Semi-structured surveys, on-site observation and focus group were used for registration information. Socio-economic factors, as well as the technical support and mechanisms for the dissemination of technologies, are key elements in the implementation and adoption of agricultural technologies and practices.