Page 3 - Peer 2 Peer Learning Start-up kit

What is a peer-to-peer group?
Peer-to-peer learning is not a new concept, we have probably
all done it at times in our lives. For example, many farmers who have been part of Landcare groups or on farm demonstrations have been participating in peer-to-peer learning. Peer-to-peer learning is best described as people helping each other to learn. This is done by sharing experiences, advice, feedback and thoughtful questions. The experience can be greatly enriched, in an environment of trust, where participants feel safe to
ask challenging questions of each other, ask questions of experts and are held accountable to take action.
Peer-to-peer learning relies on facilitation and discussion techniques rather than the traditional ‘deliver to’ approach. In New Zealand, extensive evaluation of this approach revealed that there was positive change on-farm with an average net benefit for farmers involved in peer-to-peer groups of $24 per hectare per annum. Farmers valued the learning and experience from other group members. They valued facilitators for connecting with subject matter experts, bringing structure and meeting the needs of the group. More details can be found on the Red Meat Profit Partnership at https://www.actionnetwork. co.nz/.
Peer-to-peer groups can vary in type and commitment from a relaxed discussion group through to a closed action group.
A farm discussion group is where a group of farmers, led by an extension officer/ farm adviser, meet on farm to talk about the issues and challenges they have on farm and assist each other with decision making. These groups tend to vary in farmer commitment and number. They are information sessions where farmers do not tend to report back or make commitment to action.
An action group is designed for farmers to take action. The groups are confined to a set number of farmers and are ‘closed’. Emphasis is focused on good facilitation techniques, group determination of focus, reporting in and accountability. Groups define their focus, develop group and individual actions plans which they commit to working on. The role of the facilitator is to develop the sense of purpose and focus for the group using a facilitation process and develop accountability.
For more information, please see Appendix 1.
We multiplied our experience by their experience too so suddenly you have 150 years of experience if you have 10 people who have been doing it for 15 years. That is probably what is the advantage.
New Zealand farmer, action group member
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