Assessing the potential of microcomputer-based expert systems in the process of agricultural technology transfer in Brazil
This study focused on technology-transfer problems in the agricultural sector. The research hypotheses were to assess the potential use of microcomputer-based expert systems as (1) mechanisms for transferring technical information between agricultural research and rural extension programs, (2) training aids for extensionists' (county agents') programs, and (3) tools for gathering relevant information from farmers and extensionists for research and extension management. The study also addressed the integrative role that expert systems technology plays in the overall process of technology transfer in the agricultural area, as well as the self-improving feature the technology introduces to the Total System (Research + Extension + Farmers) of agricultural technology development. A prototype expert system was developed for diagnosing and recommending treatment for selected potato diseases. In an experiment carried out in an extension organization in Brazil, 56 extensionists used the prototype and filled out a questionnaire designed to test the research hypotheses. Findings of the study indicate that microcomputer-based expert-system technology has the potential to accomplish the three objectives presented above.
- Research Organization:
- George Washington Univ., Washington, DC (USA)
- OSTI ID:
- 5317598
- Resource Relation:
- Other Information: Thesis (Ph. D.)
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
POLICY AND ECONOMY
99 GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUS//MATHEMATICS, COMPUTING, AND INFORMATION SCIENCE
AGRICULTURE
TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER
BRAZIL
EXPERT SYSTEMS
DATA ANALYSIS
INFORMATION DISSEMINATION
DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
INDUSTRY
LATIN AMERICA
SOUTH AMERICA
290500* - Energy Planning & Policy- Research
Development
Demonstration
& Commercialization
990210 - Supercomputers- (1987-1989)