What is eXtensionAUS
Introduction
Ag Ex is part of an exciting pilot project that is trialing whether the eXtension model developed in the United States has value for the Australian grains industry. It has commenced with two GRDC funded projects that have a specific and applied focus on the fields of crop nutrition and field crop diseases.
In the USA, eXtension is a national internet based educational network which compliments their community based Cooperative Extension System. It provides an interactive online learning environment that aims to deliver the best, most researched knowledge from the best knowledge sources to the consumers who need to use it, with 24/7/365 day availability.
The pilot is testing the potential of on-line systems to enable collaboration, facilitate the creation of virtual learning communities and promote knowledge exchange and technology adoption via closer and more immediate levels of engagement across the Australian grains sector.
Background
The two learning networks are being project managed by NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) (Field Crop Nutrition) and Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI) Victoria (Field Crop Diseases).
A collaboration learning network is also being developed. This network provides people outside of the grains sector with an opportunity to gain a greater understanding and experience with the processes, people and technological aspects of eXtension as it is being piloted in Australia.
Stakeholders
The eXtensionAUS pilot has been initiated by the GRDC and DEPI Victoria with the support of Grains Industry National Research, Development and Extension Committee. Other stakeholders involved in the pilot communities include DAFWA, SARDI, DAFF QLD, Grain Growers, Grain Grower Advisers, Researchers, Tertiary Education Sector, National Grains R, D and E Committee, eXtension USA, Agribusiness, Australian Farming Systems Groups (Ag Excellence Alliance in SA) and Farmer representative bodies.