Development and Standardization of a Knowledge Test on Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation Strategies for Livestock Rearing in Jammu District of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir

Abstract

The present study aimed to design and standardize a valid and reliable knowledge assessment tool to measure livestock farmers’ understanding of climate change impacts and adaptation strategies in the Jammu division. The instrument encompassed major knowledge domains, including weather pattern observation, causes of climate change, climate advisory services, impacts on animal behavior, health, reproduction, fodder and water resources, productivity, economic consequences, and adaptation strategies such as housing management, feed and water management, breed improvement, disease prevention, seasonal migration, and financial risk mitigation. An initial pool of 162 items was generated through literature review and expert consultation. Based on standard item selection procedures, 103 items were shortlisted, of which 84 were retained following expert relevancy testing. Item analysis was conducted on a sample of 20 livestock farmers, resulting in the selection of 61 items that satisfied acceptable psychometric criteria, with difficulty indices ranging from 30 to 80 and discrimination indices between 0.30 and 0.55. Reliability was established using the split-half method (r = 0.813) and further adjusted using the Spearman–Brown prophecy formula (r = 0.837). Internal consistency was confirmed through Cronbach’s alpha (α = 0.85, p < 0.05). Content validity was ensured through systematic expert evaluation. The finalized 61-item standardized knowledge test demonstrates strong psychometric properties and provides a robust tool for researchers, extension personnel, and policymakers to assess knowledge gaps, guide training interventions, and support evidence-based climate-resilient livestock development initiatives.