Evaluation study: Lifelong Learning for Farmers Activities in Tamil Nadu

Abstract

This report traces the progress and issues of the Lifelong Learning for Farmers (L3F) activities in a group of villages in Tamil Nadu, India. The study makes an attempt to address two questions: 1. Has L3F made a difference in strengthening the livelihood of the marginalised women participating in the activity? 2. Has L3F influenced the process of empowerment among the participating women? A longitudinal study covered the L3F initiative from 2008 to 2011. Surveys, Participatory Rural Appraisals (PRAs) and anthropological approaches were the tools used in the study. Index statistics was used to develop indicators such as empowerment index and social capital index. Using Liket scales and factual data, the indices were constructed. In addition to averages, statistical techniques such as ANOVA, correlation and multiple regressions helped to understand the nature and the determinants of relationships between the variables