Participatory Learning and Action 36:
PLA Notes 36: General IssueIIED, October 1999. 54 pp.
Price: US$25.00
Summary
Issue 36 provides a selection of general articles across different subject and sector areas see contents list opposite.
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1. From terms of reference to participatory learning: using an evaluation's creative space
Joanne Harnmeijer
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Abstract
Conventional evaluations of development projects are generally carried out by external experts, who largely use documented information, interviews and short visits to gather their information. They are usually guided by terms of reference which leave them with little scope for flexibility or creativity. This article describes how a project evaluation in Zimbabwe used the original terms of reference as a basis for a flexible and participatory approach to evaluation.
2. Experience with PRA training and hands-on implementation: results of an ex-post-study of PRA training courses
Gunde Gassner-Keita andReiner Forster
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Abstract
Between 1993 and 1996, GTZ, the German Agency for Technical Co-operation, conducted six training courses on the approach and methodology of Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) in Germany and Austria as part of its staff upgrading programme. This paper assesses the findings of a survey into the effectiveness of this training.
3.Tackling difficult issues: lessons from research in Ecuador
Jeremy Cox
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Abstract
Sociological studies of communities living within or close to areas of exceptional biodiversity play an integral role in any conservation strategy because they can identify impacts on the the environment and highlight less harmful means of production. The need to generate the community's confidence is essential in nurturing cooperation. This article summarises some lessons learnt from a research project in Ecuador.
4. Force field analysis: applications in PRA
Somesh Kumar
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Abstract
Force field analysis is a technique to visually identify and analyse forces affecting a problem situation so as to plan a positive change. Its visual character, simplicity, suitability for group work and applicability in planning for change makes it a potential tool with wide application in PRA. This article traces the background and origin of force field analysis, enumerates steps for using it and gives examples of its use in PRA.
5. 'Say it with pictures': an account of a self assessment process in a dairy sector support project in Tanzania
Kate Forrester Kibuga and Steve Power
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Abstract
The Southern Highlands Dairy Development Project (SHDDP) has been working in Tanzania since 1979 to strengthen the private dairy sector, with the specific goal of 'contributing to the family income of dairy farmers and the nutritional status amongst their communities'. In the latest phase of the project (1996-99), SHDDP has moved away from supporting dairy production towards a more holistic dairy sector support approach, with a focus on working in a participatory manner throughout all its activities.
6. Social network analysis, social capital and their policy implications
Marion Gibbon and Durga Pokhrel
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Abstract
The quality of relationships among and between people is an important factor to consider when working to promote strong and resilient neighbourhoods or communities. The quality of these relationships is better known as 'social capital'. This paper describes how the relatively new participatory approach of social network analysis (SNA) can be used to understand social capital and considers how strong social capital and social networks can influence policy as a local level.
7. Can PRA methods be used to collect economic data? A non-timber forest product case study from Zimbabwe
Michael Richards,Jonathan Davies and William Cavendish
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Abstract
In the past few years, PRA techniques have become ubiquitous and are almost an obligatory element in project design and implementation. But can they, as some PRA practitioners claim, generate quantitative economic data which is better (or at least comparable) and more cost-effective than that derived from 'traditional' neo-classical methods like household surveys? The Mabalauta Workshop in south-east Zimbabwe tried to answer this question, among others.
8. Snapshots from 'Deepening our understanding and practice: a conference on participatory development and beyond'. August 25-27, 1999, Ottawa, Canada
Review by Françoise Coupal, with input from Helen Patterson, Susan Rimkus, Barbara Shaw, Tag A. Elkhazin, Robert Verbruggen, Shyma K. Bhurtel, Carlton Sulwe and Maritha Snyman
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Abstract
The use of a PRA tool to assess PRA tools within the context of a training course provides an opportunity to look at the effects of a tool on an insider and to assess the learning of the trainees during the training course. It also emphasises that PRA tools can be used in almost any situation and need not be confined to appraisal interviews in rural situations. This exercise should be done when the trainees have some experience of using a range of tools in a number of different situations.
Matrix ranking of PRA tools
John Rowley
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