Agricultural businesses are under significant pressure to transform: climate change, loss of biodiversity, resource scarcity, digitalisation and changing market demands require new practical knowledge that can be integrated into day-to-day farm operations. Traditional training formats often fall short here: they are not practical enough, too lecture-based and make little use of the existing experiential knowledge within the farms. PeerFarm addresses precisely this issue by developing a learning and knowledge transfer concept based on peer-to-peer exchange, joint reflection and the strengthening of farm-based learning networks.
Needs analysis and knowledge map
The project begins with a systematic analysis: what knowledge is needed on farms to operate more sustainably – and what experiential knowledge is already available? Together with trainees, trainers and other practitioners, knowledge requirements and existing practical knowledge are identified. Interviews capture both content-related topics (e.g. soil structure, circular economy) and didactic needs (e.g. learning methods, exchange formats). The results are incorporated into a ‘knowledge map’ that highlights which topics are particularly relevant to the community, where gaps exist, and where peer learning can be particularly effective.
Peer-based learning and exchange formats
The development and testing of learning and exchange formats are consistently geared towards peer learning and community building. Based on the knowledge map, formats such as collegial case discussions, peer coaching, practical learning modules, digital exchange forums or workplace-based learning settings are designed and further developed in collaboration with the participants. The content and methods are co-produced using a real-world laboratory approach: trainees, trainers and subject matter experts test the formats in practice, provide feedback and actively help shape the materials. A digital teaching and learning platform brings together the developed formats and supports community networking.
Evaluation, further development and transfer
PeerFarm is designed as an application-oriented project with a clear focus on knowledge transfer. The learning and exchange formats tested in the real-world laboratory are evaluated, revised and trialled over several cycles. This ensures that the knowledge transfer concept is practical, motivating and sustainable in the long term. The results are presented in specialist publications and practice-oriented formats and materials. In addition, the project examines how the results can be integrated into existing agricultural education structures.
inter 3 is responsible for the scientific design, coordination and evaluation of the project. Slow Food contributes its strong practical roots and its experience in community building. Together, inter 3 and Slow Food combine scientific rigour with a vibrant practical community and experience in developing tailor-made educational materials, thereby creating sustainable structures for peer-based learning in agriculture.
The project is funded under the ‘Sustainable Careers – Future-Oriented Training’ programme by the Federal Ministry of Education, Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth and the European Union through the European Social Fund Plus (ESF Plus).
