Communication and Cooperation: Technology Transfer on Australian Family Cotton Farms

Abstract

This paper presents findings of a recent study which explores rural women’s use of an agricultural decision support system, CottonLOGIC, within the Australian cotton industry. Meta-analysis is applied through the theoretical framework of structuration theory while diffusion theory is used for lower level analysis. The concept of communication is applicable to both theories. The significance of CottonLOGIC as a communication medium for technology transfer of industry research to cotton farms is evaluated in this paper. The findings suggest that CottonLOGIC is a recognised means of information exchange but even more valuable is the cooperation of stakeholders to influence effective reconstruction of farm management practices and technology usage.