Effectiveness of Knowledge-Transfer Methods for Donkey Owners in Ethiopia
Author Information
Author(s): Stringer A.P., Bell C.E., Christley R.M., Gebreab F., Tefera G., Reed K., Trawford A., Pinchbeck G.L.
Primary Institution: School of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool
Hypothesis
Different knowledge-transfer interventions will have varying effects on the knowledge of working equid users in Ethiopia.
Conclusion
All knowledge-transfer interventions significantly improved knowledge about equid health, with the diagrammatic handout and village meeting being the most effective.
Supporting Evidence
- All interventions significantly improved knowledge scores compared to the control group.
- The handout and village meeting had nearly double the impact of the audio programme.
- Older participants benefited more from the village meeting, while younger participants did better with the handout.
- Low literacy levels among participants were considered in the design of the interventions.
- Participants were randomly selected from 32 villages in Oromia, Ethiopia.
Takeaway
This study tested different ways to teach donkey owners in Ethiopia about caring for their animals, and found that using pictures and group meetings worked best.
Methodology
A cluster-randomised controlled trial was conducted with 32 villages, where participants were assigned to different knowledge-transfer interventions and their knowledge was assessed through questionnaires.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-reported knowledge and the lack of blinding in the study.
Limitations
The study only included male participants, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
Participants were predominantly male donkey owners aged over 18, with low levels of formal education and literacy.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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