Terms of Reference (TOR)
Research Consultant
Background
To address the issue of stray, abandoned and abused animals among local communities, the Africa Network for Animal Welfare (ANAW) begun the Promoting Animal Welfare to Schools (PAWS) program among select primary schools that neighbour wildlife areas in Nairobi, Kajiado, Nakuru, Machakos, and Kiambu Counties. This program which is anchored under ANAW’s Human-Animal coexistence pillar, aims at fostering a culture of compassion and empathy for animals among school-going children.
The purpose of this project is to conduct research in selected primary schools to assess the impact of animal welfare clubs in students’ behavior and attitude towards animals. The proposed research aims to provide evidence-based insight on how this extra-curricular program in primary schools’ influences pupils’ outcomes in their empathy towards animals, knowledge of animal welfare, advocacy for animal welfare issues, and their engagement therein, as well as their comprehension of environmental issues.
Objectives
The primary objective of this research assignment is:
- To review the study design and implement an experimental study in selected primary schools across select counties in Kenya.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of animal welfare clubs on pupils’ attitude toward animal welfare, knowledge, and engagement in animal welfare related issues.
- To provide data-driven recommendations that can inform relevant educational practices and policies guiding the program.
Both qualitative and quantitative data will be collected and analysed. Pre-post intervention method will be used, involving formative and summative assessments at the beginning and end of students' participation in the animal welfare clubs during the school year.
Scope of Work
The consultant will be responsible for:
- Study Design: - Review the research design, including identifying the sample population, control, and experimental groups, and define or redefine outcome measures.
- Methodology Development: - Review the established data collection instruments, ethical considerations, and evaluation metrics.
- Data Collection: -Conduct fieldwork in selected schools, assess educational intervention, and collect pre- and post-intervention data on animal welfare club members, patrons, parents, and heads of schools.
- Data Analysis: - Analyze quantitative and qualitative data to determine the impact of the intervention on targeted outcomes.
- Report Findings: Compile report findings including qualitative and quantitative analysis, observed insights, as well as actionable recommendations.
- Presentation of Results: Present results to Africa Network for Animal Welfare (ANAW) who will then share them with relevant stakeholders.
Deliverables
The consultant will deliver the following:
- Reviewed Research (Assessment) document: Outline the research plan, including the hypothesis, methodology, and ethical considerations.
- Revise Data Collection Tools: Instruments or surveys for collecting data from students, teachers, and other participants.
- Interim Report: A progress report with preliminary findings
- Final Research Report: A comprehensive report detailing the research process, data analysis, findings, and recommendations
Duration of the Assignment
The assignment will last 10 months, starting from 14th January 2025 and concluding on 14th October 2025.
Location
The research will be conducted in selected schools within Machakos, Kajiado, Nairobi, Kilifi, Nakuru, and Taita Taveta Counties respectively. The consultant will be required to make site visits to the participating schools for data collection and hold meetings with students and school staff. The candidate shall be supported to access these locations.
Qualifications and Experience
The consultant should have:
- A graduate degree in Education, Social Sciences, Humane Education, or a related field.
- Proven experience in conducting field research, especially within school settings.
- Strong data analysis skills, with experience in quantitative and qualitative research methods.
- Knowledge of ethical standards in educational research
- Excellent communication and report-writing skills
- Experience in Project Cycle Management is desirable
Supervision and Reporting
The consultant will report to ANAW-Director of Planning and Research and provide timely updates on the progress of this research.
Terms and Payment
Payment shall be structured based on deliverables and milestones outlined in the contract, with payments released upon satisfactory completion of each phase.
Application Process
Applicants should submit:
- Curriculum Vitae and cover letter highlighting relevant experience
- A sample of previous work, preferably related to educational or social experimental research. Limit to 500-800words
Send your CV and cover letter through: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Note: A proposal on the approach and methodology for this assignment may not be required.
Application deadline: 20th December 2024.