Thesis
Assessing the potential adoption of quinoa for consumption in central Malawi
Washington State University
Master of Science (MS), Washington State University
2013
Handle:
https://hdl.handle.net/2376/103623
Abstract
This study focuses on assessing the potential adoption of quinoa for consumption in Central Malawi. Environmental, economic, and social problems are prevalent in this region that is dependent on subsistence agriculture. Quinoa is conceptualized as a new agricultural innovation. If successfully adopted, quinoa may have the potential to provide additional nutrition, crop diversification, and added value as an export crop for smallholder farms. Based primarily on the work of Everett M. Rogers (2003), the Diffusion of Innovations is a theory that seeks to explain how, why, and at what rate individuals or cultures adopt new ideas and technology over time. This study focuses on the adoption variables of "compatibility" and "change agents" (Rogers, 2003) in order to assess the potential adoption of quinoa as an alternative food source in Central Malawi. With an emphasis based on the local-level experiences of regional farmers and extension specialists, data were gathered to evaluate the adoption potential of a new innovation (quinoa) and the potential diffusion of information between extension programs and local farmers. Results showed that adoption potential in this region is positive, with a focus on regular and consistent extension visits, and participatory research between researchers, extension, and villagers.
Metrics
13 File views/ downloads
22 Record Views
Details
- Title
- Assessing the potential adoption of quinoa for consumption in central Malawi
- Creators
- Leslie Morgan Gardner
- Contributors
- Kevin Murphy (Degree Supervisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Washington State University
- Academic Unit
- Environment, School of the (CAHNRS)
- Theses and Dissertations
- Master of Science (MS), Washington State University
- Publisher
- Washington State University; [Pullman, Washington] :
- Identifiers
- 99900525039401842
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Thesis