Fieldwork And Ethnography Questions
The key differences between fieldwork and participatory research lie in their approaches and levels of involvement.
Fieldwork refers to the systematic study and observation of a particular social group or community in their natural setting. It involves the researcher immersing themselves in the field, often for an extended period, to gather data through direct observation, interviews, and document analysis. Fieldwork is typically conducted by an external researcher who maintains a certain level of detachment from the community being studied.
On the other hand, participatory research emphasizes collaboration and active involvement of the community being studied. It aims to empower the participants by including them in the research process, decision-making, and analysis of findings. Participatory research recognizes the expertise and knowledge of the community members, and they are considered co-researchers rather than mere subjects. The research is conducted in partnership with the community, and the findings are often used for community development or social change.
In summary, while fieldwork focuses on the researcher's observation and analysis of a community, participatory research involves active participation and collaboration with the community members, aiming for their empowerment and social change.