Embedded Competence: A Study of Farmers’ Relation to Competence and Knowledge

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to explore the diversity of farmers’ relationship to the networks that make up the knowledge and innovation systems. We approach farmer’s knowledge diversity through the development of a typology based on a principal component analysis (PCA) of Norwegian farmers. The analysis indicates a preliminary typology of farmers where the main types are: 1) the self-confident farmers; 2) the knowledge-seeking farmers; 3) the knowledge-purchasing farmers; 4) the experienced farmers; 5) the collective- knowledge farmers; and, 6) the well-educated farmers. We discuss how extension service may improve communication, knowledge services, and knowledge networks.