Qualitative Research for Development ─ A Guide for Practitioners

Qualitative Research for Development aims to build the research capacity of development practitioners so that their work benefits from the significant contributions offered by solid qualitative research. The book guides development practitioners through the process of planning, conducting and reporting on a qualitative study, while simultaneously highlighting the role of qualitative research in improving the impact, quality and accountability of development programs. It covers in detail data collection methods such as Participatory Learning and Action, Photovoice, Individual Interviews, Focus Group Discussions and Observations. It demystifies qualitative research and builds the skills and confidence of development practitioners to use qualitative methods authoritatively, and to communicate findings to different audiences.

The book draws on considerable hands-on experience and incorporates case studies from Save the Children and other international organizations to illustrate good practice. To facilitate learning, all the chapters include a series of practical activities that can help the reader to engage actively with the material.