The SEU has adopted several different methodologies, including the following:
1. exploitation of secondary sources: Balochistan in general, and the highlands in particular, are characterized by a lack of data concerning the social and economic life of rural communities. However, some books, reports and articles of different quality address several relevant issues. One of the initial steps of the SEU has been to collect, examine and review the available documentation in order to draw together all existing information of relevance. Annex 9 of this report provides a detailed list of this documentation;
2. questionnaire-based surveys: Field researchers (including group promoters and community motivators) have been initiated into the preparation of general questionnaires seeking basic data on population, livestock and agriculture activities, marketing, production strategies, and so on. Annex I presents a complete list of these questionnaires (prepared in Urdu), with specific examples provided in annex 2;
3. use of a checklist of the main parameters to be observed or discussed with informants: A fairly exhaustive list of socio-economic issues which have to be considered in any socio-economic approach was prepared and discussed with field staff. This list included questions related to the functioning of local production systems, division of tasks, productive strategies, general historical background, information on use of natural resources, relations with other communities, and so on;
4. application of appraisal techniques: In order to assess as quickly as possible the socio-economic situation of the different project areas, the SEU has adopted several tools of a methodology which places a particular emphasis on direct observation and semi-structured interviews with individuals and groups of individuals (Rapid Rural Appraisal, RRA), and which stresses the involvement of local communities in the identification and monitoring of technical initiatives (Participatory Rural Appraisal, PRA). This manner of proceeding emphasizes the need to observe, listen to and understand the points of view, patterns of organization, and actions of the community, to consider differences among specific categories of people (especially women), and to build on local know-how. Annex 3 presents the main characteristics of this method. Annex 8 gives Pashtu essential socio-economic terms.
These four components of the overall methodology are closely interrelated, and the SEU experience is that they can not be separated and have to be considered as an on-going process accompanying the entire development activity (see figure 1). Findings of this research have to be presented in a concise report (see annex 4 providing the general outline of a socio-economic report), or in a short socio-economic profile (see annex 3) according to the needs.
FIGURE 1: THE RESEARCH CYCLE IN A DEVELOPMENT CONTEXT
