Learning Techniques for Acquiring Grain Farming Competencies: A Classic Grounded Theory

Description

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18311227

Thapelo Moloi (Department of Human Resource & Labour Relations, University of Venda, South Africa)

South Africa’s National Development Plan (NDP 2030) envisages to upskill many emerging farmers and upgrade them to commercial farming. The previously disadvantaged farmers comprise of this emerging category and above all, prospective farmers are also accommodated in the same category. This calls for learning to be transferred through any available means, for knowledge and skill seekers to benefit. This paper seeks to present findings on the learning techniques used to acquire grain farming competencies through employing classic grounded theory. Fifteen semi-structured interviews with participants comprising of farmers and farm workers were held in the study. Additionally, triangulation with three experts validated the learning techniques raised by the participants. Findings showed that early child exposure to farming, learning at educational institutions, openness to mentoring, on-the-job training and participating in refresher training programmes serve as important learning techniques. Theoretical and practical implications of the study are also discussed.