Resources

Identifying Key Questions for the Development of Tropical Ecosystems

Authors: 
Conway, G.
1982

Abstract

This paper emphasises the importance of understanding agroecosystems by employing cross-disciplinary approaches and drawing on of farmers' knowledge where appropriate. The systems approach and procedures for agroecosystem analysis are outlined. Pattern analysis (of time, space, flows and decision-making) are considered. The paper focuses on key questions which arise in the process of system definition, pattern analysis and discussion of system properties. These concepts are illustrated diagramatically throughout.

Appropriate Methodology for Development Research

Authors: 
Belshaw, D.
1976

Abstract

This paper discusses two related questions: Are research results usable? Are the data actually used in decision-making? Both are determined by the researcher's choice of research methodology. The links between choice of research methodology and the application of results is discussed through a simple conceptual model. A satisfactory link requires a decision to allocate part of research capacity to the evaluation of previous research. To demonstrate the difficulties involved in rigorous analysis, a case study of ten years of research for agricultural development in three East African countries (Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania) is reviewed. Deficiencies in agricultural planning and in applied research for agricultural development are discussed in detail. The causes of ineffective applied research are viewed as lying in scientific culture. An example of applied research with implemented solutions is given, emphasising the benefits of participant research and management procedures for planning.

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Multi-Subject Farm Surveys Reconsidered: Some Methodological Lessons

Authors: 
Moris, J.
1970

Abstract

It draws on the experience of the author with regard to socio-economic surveys carried out in Kenya and elsewhere in East Africa. It considers problems in sampling, farmers' responses, the interview situation, survey staff, and various problems with regard to recording accuracy and data processing. The paper concludes by noting 20 key aspects that should be taken into account when designing surveys. These include: (1) careful selection and training of staff; (2) the importance of learning the farming systems in advance; (3) where possible to choose farmers for whom the key parameters are known from other sources; (4) utilize at least one full time supervisor resident in the survey area with independent transport; and (5) allow two thirds of the total period for activities other than the field survey, ie. data processing.

Untitled letter from John Dixon (FAO) to Devrika Tamang (IDS).

Authors: 
Dixon, J.
et al.

Abstract

This is a selection of letters and memos from FAO offices sent in reply to an IDS request for information on the use of PRA in policy research. Most replies indicate little such application of PRA. the last letter, however, concerns the use of PRA in a fisheries programme in Guinea. 45 fisheries department staff were trained in PRA. This resulted in a series of reports, prepared by national staff without requiring any further outside assistance, being one of the reasons why the reports seem to have had an impact on policy decisions at the ministry level.

Process Documentation: Social Science Research in a Learning Process Approach to Program Development

Authors: 
de los Reyes, R.

Abstract

This booklet contains two papers. The first concerns process documentation, a tool for providing an action agency that adopts a new intervention strategy with continuous information about activities in a few project sites and the problems and issues emerging from the field activities. The information provided then becomes a major source for identifying strategies of field implementation, policy directions and can help reorient the agency to a new mode of working with clients. To illustrate, the paper discusses the use of process documentation in efforts by the National Irrigation Administration to organise farmer-users of small scale irrigation systems into viable irrigation associations. The second paper (by J. Volante) discusses the role of participant observation in process documentation research. It discusses the steps and procedures in accomplishing participant observation work during pre-field, fieldwork and writing phases of research, giving tips for good participant observation.

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