Models in innovation studies: a critical reflection based on comparison of four innovation processes in Benin

Floquet Anne, Davo Vodouhê Simplice, Van Den Berg Jolanda, Tossou Rigobert, Triomphe Bernard, Mongbo Roch. 2014. Models in innovation studies: a critical reflection based on comparison of four innovation processes in Benin. In : Proceedings of the International Workshop on Agricultural Innovation Systems in Africa (AISA), 29-31 May 2013, Nairobi, Kenya. Triomphe Bernard (ed.), Waters-Bayer Ann (ed.), Klerkx Laurens (ed.), Cullen Beth (ed.), Kamau Geoffrey (ed.), Le Borgne Ewen (ed.). Montpellier : CIRAD, 95-103. International Workshop on Agricultural Innovation Systems in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya, 29 Mai 2013/31 Mai 2013.

Résumé : In the context of the EU-funded JOLISAA (JOint Learning in Innovation Systems in African Agriculture) project, four local innovation processes involving smallholders in Benin were selected for in-depth assessment: innovation in hwedo agrofishing, integrated soil fertility management (ISFM), rice parboiling and soy value chains. Stakeholders directly involved in the innovation process were interviewed. As alternative to the currently challenged transfer-of-technology model of agricultural research and development (ARD) and in order to develop a framework for process monitoring, this paper presents underlying explanatory/analytical models derived out of lessons learnt from the four case studies, reflecting the main features of and the main drivers behind these innovation processes. The explanatory models are: i) feedback socio-ecological model; ii) pull-and-push innovation-driver model; iii) co-learning and joint selection model; and iv) historical account using the innovation bundle. Each model emphasises specific linkages within complex processes of innovation by smallholders. The models are not mutually exclusive and should be embedded in a more comprehensive theory-based framework of innovation processes. However, each of them can be used to design operational monitoring and systematic ongoing assessment of innovation in focusing on specific aspects of the innovation process. The innovation-bundle model helps in following innovation sequences over time and making local innovation visible. The co-learning model describes how innovations are identified or designed, adjusted and kept, or dropped. The pull-and-push model helps project designers think of innovation in terms of opportunities for smallholders and not in terms of problems. The feedback socio-ecological model stresses the relationship between changes in the state of natural ecological systems and human actions and institutions. Monitoring would contribute to making the innovation process more visible and providing more adequate support.

Classification Agris : E14 - Économie et politique du développement
C20 - Vulgarisation
Q02 - Traitement et conservation des produits alimentaires
F01 - Culture des plantes
P35 - Fertilité du sol
M01 - Pêche et aquaculture - Considérations générales

Auteurs et affiliations

• Floquet Anne, UAC (BEN)
• Davo Vodouhê Simplice, UAC (BEN)
• Van Den Berg Jolanda, LEI (NLD)
• Tossou Rigobert, UAC (BEN)
• Triomphe Bernard, CIRAD-ES-UMR INNOVATION (FRA)
• Mongbo Roch, UAC (BEN)

Source : Cirad - Agritrop (https://agritrop.cirad.fr/574777/)

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