Development of a scale to analyze the perception of dairy farmers pertaining to meteorological disaster management

Abstract

The study was conducted to develop a valid and reliable scale, to analyze the perception of dairy farmers pertaining to meteorological disaster management. Thurston’s technique of equal appearing interval scale was followed in the construction of this scale. This scale has been standardized and found to be reliable and valid. In order to know the perception of dairy farmers pertaining to meteorological disaster management, a comprehensive list of 35 statements was prepared. Statements were edited as per the 14 criteria enunciated by Edward (1957) and at last, 19 statements were selected as they were found to be non-ambiguous. These components along with the statements were mailed to 120 experts for the judge’s opinion with (five-point continuum). Out of the 120 judges, 52 judges were replied in time by sending their judgements. Based on the scale (median) and Q values, 10 statements were finally selected to analyze the perception of dairy farmers pertaining to meteorological disaster management. The Split-half method developed by Brown prophecy was employed to measure the reliability. The reliability co-efficient (0.535) and content validity also worked, indicating higher reliability and validity of the scale. The standardized scale would have practical applicability in knowing the perceptual level and thus it facilitates to take right decisions by policymakers.