MOUNT KENYA UNIVERSITY

NAME: ABDULLAHI NOOR AHAT

REG NO: BEDS202354007
UNIT : AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH METHODS

Q1) Using your own agricultural related data calculate variance, mean and standard deviation (10 marks)
Q2) Describe the steps followed in data processing after undertaking an agricultural experiment. (10 marks)

a) Data Collection: This is the primary step where data is gathered from the experiment. It can
include quantitative measurements like yield, temperature, moisture levels, or qualitative
observations like plant health, pest activity, or soil color. Ensuring accurate and systematic
data collection is crucial for the reliability of the experiment.
b) Data Entry: Once the data is collected, it needs to be entered into a computer system or
database for analysis. This could involve manual entry into spreadsheets, the use of data
entry software, or the direct collection of data into digital form through sensors or digital
tools.
c) Data Cleaning: This step involves checking the data for errors or inconsistencies, such as
outliers, missing values, or duplicate entries. Data cleaning ensures the quality of the data
before analysis begins. Techniques can include reviewing the data manually, using software
to identify anomalies, or applying statistical methods to detect outliers.
d) Data Coding: In the case of qualitative data or categorical variables, coding is applied to
convert descriptions, properties, or characteristics into numerical or symbolic values that
can be processed by statistical software. This step is essential for the quantitative analysis of
qualitative data.
e) Data Transformation: Data might need to be transformed or normalized to meet the
assumptions of statistical tests or to improve the interpretability of the results. This can
include scaling, normalization, or the application of logarithmic transformations to reduce
skewness in the data.
f) Data Integration: If data has been collected from multiple sources or through different
methods, it may need to be integrated into a single dataset. This involves ensuring that the
data from different sources is compatible, both in terms of format and scale.
g) Data Analysis: With clean, coded, and integrated data, the next step is to perform statistical
analysis to test hypotheses or explore relationships between variables. This can range from
simple descriptive statistics to complex inferential statistics or modeling depending on the
research questions.
h) Data Interpretation: The results of the data analysis are interpreted in the context of the
research questions and the existing body of scientific knowledge. This step involves drawing
conclusions, identifying patterns or trends, and considering the implications of the findings.
i) Data Visualization: Visual representations of the data and the results, such as graphs, charts,
or maps, are created to aid in the interpretation and to communicate the findings effectively
to others.
j) Data Documentation and Reporting: Finally, the entire process, from the methodology of the
experiment through to the analysis and conclusions, is documented in a report or
publication. This includes detailing the data processing steps, statistical methods used, and
the interpretation of the results.

3) Formulate a research topic related to an agricultural problem in your county and develop its objectives and
hypothesis.
Research Topic: "Assessing the Impact of Climate Variability on Food Security in Mandera County,
Kenya"

Background: Mandera County, located in the arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs) of Kenya, faces
significant agricultural challenges, including recurrent droughts, floods, and extreme temperatures.
These climate-related issues have profound impacts on food security, affecting crop production,
livestock health, and the livelihoods of local communities. Given the critical importance of
agriculture for the economy and sustenance of the population in Mandera, there is a need for
comprehensive research to understand the extent of climate variability's impact on food security
and to develop adaptive strategies.

Objectives:

a. To assess the current status of food security in Mandera County in the context of agricultural
practices.

This objective aims to establish a baseline understanding of food security levels and agricultural
productivity in the region.

b. To analyze the patterns of climate variability ian Mandera County over the past two decades.

This involves collecting and analyzing meteorological data to identify trends in rainfall, temperature,
and other relevant climate variables.

c. To evaluate the impact of climate variability on crop production and livestock health in
Mandera County.

This objective focuses on understanding how changes in climate variables have affected agricultural
outputs and livestock, which are crucial for food security.

d. To identify and assess the effectiveness of existing coping and adaptive strategies employed
by farmers and pastoralists in Mandera County.

This aims to understand how local communities are currently managing the challenges posed by
climate variability and to evaluate the sustainability and effectiveness of these strategies.

e. To recommend policy measures and adaptive strategies to enhance food security in

Mandera County in the face of climate variability.

Based on the findings, this objective seeks to propose actionable recommendations for local and
national policymakers to improve food security through adaptive agriculture practices and policies.

Hypothesis:

H0 (Null Hypothesis): Climate variability has no significant impact on food security in Mandera
County.

H1 (Alternative Hypothesis): Climate variability significantly affects food security in Mandera County,
with adverse effects on crop production and livestock health leading to decreased food availability
and access.