Podcast: The IDEMS Podcast

Lucie and David discuss the origins and evolution of Farmer Research Networks (FRNs) within the work of the Global Collaboration for Resilient Food Systems. They explore how FRNs were conceived as a way to combine participatory research with large-scale data and reflect on ongoing debates around embedded scaling, participation, and the distinction between FRNs and…

Lily and David discuss recent work on the ePICSA system, focusing on the development of a structured summaries database to support climate information for agriculture. They explore how moving from file-based systems to a database approach creates new opportunities for versioning, quality control, decentralised workflows, and accreditation of climate products. The conversation also reflects on…

Santiago and David discuss how a specialised AI assistant is supporting their work authoring and reviewing STACK questions. They explore the balance between human expertise and AI support, reflecting on how the assistant improves efficiency, enhances question quality, and helps navigate complex documentation and legacy code. The conversation also highlights the broader potential of specialised…

Michele and David explore the ideas and design principles behind the Open App Builder, a system developed through IDEMS’ collaboration with Parenting for Lifelong Health (PLH). They discuss the challenges of creating flexible, reusable app infrastructures that support collaboration across technical and non-technical teams, and reflect on the long-term vision of enabling local organisations to…

Michele and David discuss the development of facilitator apps within the Parenting for Lifelong Health (PLH) ecosystem, exploring how these tools support facilitators delivering parenting programmes in diverse contexts. They reflect on the growing role of adaptable digital tools for reporting, monitoring, and programme delivery, and discuss the wider opportunities these technologies create for scalable…

Santiago and David discuss the emergence of STACK question authoring as a growing area of work within IDEMS. They reflect on the value of cross-institution collaboration, the role of formative assessment and feedback in mathematics education, and how expertise developed across diverse educational contexts can support universities internationally.

David and Digital Green CEO Rikin Gandhi discuss the intersection of farmer research networks, participatory agricultural research, and AI-enabled extension systems. They explore how tools like Farmer Chat could support large-scale, farmer-led experimentation by combining rich qualitative data with rigorous research design. The conversation highlights the potential for more collaborative, context-sensitive agricultural systems that place…

Lucie and David discuss the upcoming Pan-African workshop on community-owned digital technologies, exploring its origins in a broader call for more locally grounded tech development. They reflect on the challenges of bringing together diverse participants—from developers to community organisations—and the importance of designing technology that genuinely serves community needs.

Lily and David discuss the AIMS Rwanda doctoral course on problem solving in data science, reflecting on how participants engage with complex simulated datasets. They explore the challenges students face in identifying underlying models, the limitations of relying on AI tools, and the importance of interpretation and human insight in data analysis. The conversation highlights…

Lucie and David reflect on key moments from the 20th anniversary celebration of the West Africa Community of Practice (COP), focusing on the activities and discussions that shaped the week. They explore the innovation fair, engagement with policymakers, and participatory sessions reflecting on the past and future of the COP.