Impact of Farmer Field Schools on Smallholder Yield and Adoption Rates in Maize

Thesis Abstract

This study investigates the impact of Farmer Field Schools (FFS) on maize yield and adoption of improved agronomic practices among smallholder farmers in a high-agroecological-variance region. The context centers on persistent yield gaps, limited adoption of enhanced seed and fertilizer technologies, and the need for scalable extension methodologies that empower farmers through experiential learning and community-based experimentation. The aim is to quantify the effect of FFS participation on maize yield and to assess the extent and determinants of adoption of recommended practices, with attention to gender, age, wealth status, and farm size as moderating factors. Specific objectives are (1) to estimate the effect of FFS participation on maize yield, controlling for plot and household characteristics; (2) to measure the rate of adoption of promoted agronomic practices among FFS participants relative to non-participants; (3) to identify causal pathways linking FFS experiential learning to yield outcomes and practice adoption; (4) to evaluate the role of peer diffusion and field-level experimentation in sustaining adoption; and (5) to assess the cost-effectiveness and scalability potential of FFS-based extension within existing agricultural support programs. The methodology employs a quasi-experimental design using a matched treatment-control approach and a longitudinal panel over two cropping seasons. The population comprises maize-producing smallholders in three districts with active FFS programs facilitated by a national extension agency in collaboration with nongovernmental organizations. A sample of 420 households (210 FFS participants and 210 non-participants) will be selected using propensity score matching to ensure comparability on baseline characteristics such as farm size, prior yield, educational attainment, and access to inputs. Data collection instruments include structured household surveys, plot-level agronomic measurement sheets, FFS facilitator observation checklists, and in-depth qualitative interviews with participating farmers and extension staff. Instrument validity and reliability will be established through pilot testing, Cronbach alpha tests for multi-item scales, and inter-rater reliability for observer-based measures. Quantitative data will be analyzed using multivariate regression models, including fixed-effects and random-effects specifications to control for unobserved heterogeneity at the household and plot levels. A Difference-in-Differences (DiD) approach will be employed to identify the causal impact of FFS on yield, complemented by Propensity Score Matching to balance treatment and control groups. Adoption outcomes will be operationalized through a composite index incorporating fertilizer use intensity, improved seed adoption, pest and disease management practices, and soil moisture conservation techniques; ordinal and logistic regression will assess determinants of adoption. Theoretical framing integrates the Diffusion of Innovations (Rogers) and Adult Learning Theory to connect experiential learning, peer networks, and behavior change, with the Capability Approach (Sen) to interpret empowerment and access to resources as mediating factors. Qualitative data from interviews will be analyzed thematically to capture perceived benefits, constraints, and contextual variations across districts. Anticipated findings include a statistically significant yield increase among FFS participants, mediated by higher adoption rates of raised-bed farming, timely planting, integrated nutrient management, and pest-control strategies; adoption is expected to be higher among women and marginal households when supported by peer groups and demonstration plots. The study is expected to reveal cost per hectare reductions or yield gains that justify program expansion, with sensitivity analyses confirming robustness to alternative matching specifications. The contribution to knowledge lies in articulating a rigorous empirical link between field-school-based extension and measurable agronomic and behavioral outcomes, offering evidence for scalable, participatory extension models that enhance food security and resilience. Policy implications include integrating FFS into national extension strategies, tailoring gender-responsive components, and prioritizing mechanisms for sustained farmer learning and dissemination through farmer-to-farmer diffusion channels. The main conclusion anticipated is that FFS substantially improves maize yields and accelerates the adoption of improved agronomic practices when accompanied by supportive peer networks and timely access to inputs; recommendations emphasize strengthening local facilitator capacity, expanding demonstrational plots, integrating FFS with credit and input supply schemes, and conducting ongoing monitoring to sustain adoption trajectories.