Farm Experience Internship: methodological contributions for a liberating and agroecological education

Abstract

Across the globe it`s possible to find a substantial disconnection between policy advice and research
and the daily reality of farmers. From a horizontal and interdisciplinary perspective, the
Farm Experience Internship (FEI) was created in the Netherlands aiming to break the barriers
between the farmers’ daily practice and the theory based education of the student. Through a
living experience in a farm, the project enables students to have an innovative, transformative
and coherent educational experience, besides connecting to different actors throughout the
participatory process. Having as pillars the principles of Agroecology and Popular Education,
the creation of the FEI was inspired by the Estágios Interdisciplinares de Vivência (EIV’s),
which are founded in Brazil. Considered a success, the project involves different partners and
was officialised as an optional course at Wageningen University, where its fifth edition is now
being organised. Its contribution to academical education is recognized by students, bringing
empowerment and innovation. At the same time, farmers feel valorised and consider the initiative
of great importance.