Gardener connection research group
Principal investigator: Dr. Ever Bedoya
Gardener Connection is an independent research group that seeks to connect small-scale farmers through computer-mediated communication platforms. It accompanies and connects leaders, small-scale farmers, society, and technology so that they achieve actions to meet part of their food demand, exchange food, sell surplus crops, and information sharing knowledge to achieve community food sovereignty. The group is formed by 4 members. It is led by Ph.D. Ever Bedoya, senior lecturer for the Faculty of Business and Economics at the University of Pécs; Ph.D. Evelyn Calispa, research assistant for the Faculty of Business and Economics at the University of Pécs; Ph.D. Jahir Gutierrez Ossa, lecturer for the University of Antioquia; Alexander Tabares, lecturer for the Faculty of Business and Economics at the University of Medellin.
Lines of research
- Computer-mediated communication and small-scale farming
The research investigates the integration of computer-mediated communication (CMC) in small-scale farming contexts. It examines how digital tools like mobile apps and online platforms impact knowledge sharing and market access. This line of research explores the effects of CMC on food demand, food exchange, and sell of surplus crops. Furthermore, it explores virtual community formation, highlighting how online networks enable peer learning and support. Finally, the research explores how CMC empowers small-scale farmers, fostering sustainable practices, enhancing economic opportunities, and creating a more interconnected agricultural landscape.
- Knowledge Sharing and small-scale farming
Knowledge is essential for small-scale farming as it facilitates access to data on vital aspects such as weather, market trends, and best agricultural practices, enabling informed decisions. Moreover, knowledge-sharing networks foster community cohesion and innovation. This line of research includes studies on local knowledge creation, channels for knowledge sharing, barriers hindering effective knowledge sharing in small-scale farming contexts.
- Food sovereignty
Food sovereignty is a concept that emphasizes the rights of communities and individuals to control their own food systems. It goes beyond just ensuring access to food and involves the ability of communities to shape their agricultural and food policies, production methods, and consumption patterns according to their cultural, social, ecological, and economic needs. This research line delves into the conceptualization of food sovereignty, the epistemological and practical differences between food sovereignty and food security and the quantitative measurement of food sovereignty.
Current Project
It is an action-research project that seeks to create a communication network among small-scale farmers and the community through CMC channels to generate links that allow the transfer of knowledge, also the exchange and commercialization of agricultural products.
- Phase 1: Fieldwork and empirical research.
- Phase 2: Platforms design
- Phase 3: Training on how to use the platform
SDG: The project is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 2: End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture.
- SDG 6: Ensure access to water and sanitation for all.
- SDG 12:Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns.
- SDG 15:Protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss.
Team: Ph. D. Ever Bedoya, Senior Lecturer; Ph.D. Evelyn Calispa Aguilar, Research Assistant