Publication details

• Monday | 15 Feb, 1993
• Kenneth Fernandes
• Working Papers
• 55

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Abstract

This paper highlights different research methodologies for different types of users. The author talks about the social survey method which is the conventional approach and the ethnographic method which adopts a more participatory approach. He goes on to criticise the conventional method for a number of reasons e.g., uncritical acceptance of the research methodologies of the developed world by the third world countries, the power and control aspect i.e., when research is funded by developed countries they control the policies and how the people on or for whom the research is being conducted are not involved in the process and are marginalized from the decision making process and thus a status quo is maintained. The author prefers the participatory research method as it leads to development action - reflection  - political action,  which contributes towards structural change at the local level.  The author concludes by emphasizing that the participatory research method helps people become aware of their situation and provides them with strength and incentive to rectify it, which turns participatory research into an ongoing process.