A scale to measure perception of farmers on pesticides use behaviour

Abstract

A scale was developed to measure the perception of farmers about pesticides use behaviour by following the Likert’s summated rating scale was. Based on the review of literature and discussion with the experts, 81 statements were prepared on dimensions. Relevancy rating was sent to 250 scientists and extension specialists working in research institutes of Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR), State Agricultural University and development Departments for critical evaluation of statements on five point continuum. Eighty five judges sent in time were analyzed and aggregate of 74 statements were selected by finding the relevancy weightage scores (RWS) equal or more than 0.75 and mean relevancy score of 3.00 were selected for the item analysis. In item analysis the selected statements were administered to 40 farmers in non-sample area in Dharwad district of Karnataka state. Finally a total of 25 statements were selected for the study based on ‘r’ values (> 1.75) they were included in the final scale. The ‘r’ value of the scale was found to be 0.91, which was significant at one per cent level indicating the high reliability. The scale developed was found to be reliable and valid, hence it is recommended to use the scale to study pesticide use behaviour.