Enhancing integrated approaches in agricultural learning systems using experiences from agroforestry

Small-scale farmers integrate biophysical factors with social, economic, cultural and environmental considerations in managing complex farming systems. This contrasts sharply with universities’ typical organization of knowledge, where reductionist approaches prevail. Such fragmentation leads to graduates with insufficient competence in the analysis of farming systems. Thirty years of agroforestry research have expanded our understanding of complex farming systems and mosaic landscapes. Tools derived from such research can enhance teaching and learning in higher education. Using experiences in Africa and Southeast Asia, this paper argues that agroforestry education contributes to better understanding of integrated production systems – and gradates who are better prepared to advise farmers.