Exploring the role of inner development goal skills in sustainable agricultural practices
Abstract
Focusing on Vermont, this research examines the role of farmers' inner development skills as essential drivers of sustainable agricultural practices, grounded in the frameworks of Inner Development Goals (IDGs). Our study addresses a gap in understanding how personal and communal factors influence farmers' sustainability efforts, offering insights into how these dimensions shape sustainable practices in rural agricultural settings. A mixed-methods approach is employed to provide a comprehensive view of these dynamics. In-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with six diverse farms across Vermont, capturing their values, goals, and community relationships. Additionally, a survey, designed based on the qualitative findings, was distributed to a broader sample of farmers to collect quantitative data on the prevalence of these values and practices. By prioritizing the voices and values of farmers, this study aims to deepen our understanding of the intersection between personal and community values in promoting sustainable agriculture.
Primary Faculty Mentor Name
Alexis Brieant
Status
Graduate
Student College
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
Program/Major
Food Systems
Primary Research Category
Social Science
Exploring the role of inner development goal skills in sustainable agricultural practices
Focusing on Vermont, this research examines the role of farmers' inner development skills as essential drivers of sustainable agricultural practices, grounded in the frameworks of Inner Development Goals (IDGs). Our study addresses a gap in understanding how personal and communal factors influence farmers' sustainability efforts, offering insights into how these dimensions shape sustainable practices in rural agricultural settings. A mixed-methods approach is employed to provide a comprehensive view of these dynamics. In-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with six diverse farms across Vermont, capturing their values, goals, and community relationships. Additionally, a survey, designed based on the qualitative findings, was distributed to a broader sample of farmers to collect quantitative data on the prevalence of these values and practices. By prioritizing the voices and values of farmers, this study aims to deepen our understanding of the intersection between personal and community values in promoting sustainable agriculture.
