Knowledge on MS excel program: a must-have skills for AEWs

Training participants pose for a group photo during the culmination of the three-day training

Tagbilaran City - Basic knowledge on data tabulation and analysis using Microsoft Excel is an important skill for agricultural extension workers. Knowledge about information management flow and the importance of data analysis and organization will later on help their respective office make informed decisions.

On 19 – 21 May 2021, a training on Data Tabulation, Analysis and Interpretation for Agricultural Extension Workers was conducted in Sunset Villa, Taloto District, Tagbilaran City, Bohol. It was participated by 20 agricultural extension workers from the municipalities of Alicia, Antequera, Baclayon, Balilihan, Bien Unido, Calape, Candijay, Cortes, Dimiao, Duero, Inabanga, Lila, Loon, Maribojoc, Panglao, Pilar, Sagbayan, San Miguel, Tubigon and Ubay.

The training mainly aims to enhance the knowledge and skills of the agricultural extension workers on data management and interpretation.

During the three-day training, participants learned on how to recognize the usability of the Microsoft Excel Program in terms of data encoding and tabulation; encode numerical data gathered using the said program; and interpret the analyzed data both in tabular and narrative format.

On the first day, participants learned some basics of Microsoft Excel Program such as cell referencing, formatting and entering formula; sorting of data and filtering of data; use of conditional formatting and other. On the second day, they learned about data cleaning and how to use different charts in presenting their data. On the last and third day, they learned about data analysis and interpretation. They also learned the importance of knowledge management and how to write concept notes.

“This training is very timely for us. Our local government unit is currently preparing a sectoral comprehensive land use plan. We are struggling on how to tabulate and interpret our data in order for us to make informed plans. We are still amidst our preparation. Hence, I am thankful to this training as this will help us a lot in making our job a lot easier and faster,” said Glaiza Vallecera – one of the training participants.

Lhea Glory Mae B. Arana and Maryjane Flor S. Patulilic, both staff from ATI-7, shared their expertise on the topics discussed as resource persons while Angelie B. Mencede served as facilitator.

Should there be any clarifications or inquiries around this training, you may contact Ma. Gracia Soliva-Pungay, Project Officer, through her email at mgspungay@ati.da.gov.ph.

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