Using Participatory Methodologies in Technical Assistance (ATER) processes and Rural Extension: Theoretical and practical foundations

Abstract

This article discusses the use of Participatory Methodologies in Technical Assistance and Rural Extension (ATER) processes, with the objective of promoting the conceptual understanding of ATER, participation and methodological tools that promote, in extension action, building dialogic processes of knowledge construction and the autonomy promotion on the part of individuals and groups involved. It is observed that, as a legal precept established in the National Policy for Technical Assistance and Rural Extension, the methodologies that promote citizen participation should be built considering their goals, situations and local contexts. In this sense, we present some of them, among many methodologies that can help in diagnostic processes, critical consciousness making, planning, monitoring and evaluation.