Evaluation Method on ODA from the View Point of Development Anthropology

Abstract

In this paper, I tried to show how social anthropology can contribute to the study of socio-economic development and the evaluation method, using the example of the evaluation sample.

Let us now consider the most efficient way to reconcile development projects with indigenous culture. Social anthropology has long emphasized indigenous culture and technology to be the main driving force in socioeconomic development projects. It is about time we take a closer look at indigenous cultures, their values and technology, and study the potentials it might offer in order to facilitate social and economic development. Another solution is to invite anthropologists with expertise in one region to participate in joint preliminary studies alongside development economists and political scientists. One such methodology developed in the early 80's through collaborative effort evolving anthropologists are Rapid Rural Appraisal (RRA) and Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA), used in preliminary studies and post-project evaluation. This was jointly developed by Khon Kaen University in Thailand and England's Sussex University and is now widely employed by public institutions in Europe and America as a tool for short-term field study conducted by groups. These two methodologies allow study groups to conduct field studies and research on indigenous culture while cutting back on time and expense, and shortening the term of field study. On average, it only takes 10 to 14 days to complete a field study using the above methodology. This cutback on time does not compromise the quality of research. On the contrary, these tools were developed in order to improve quality and efficiency of data gathering. Meaningful data gathering is made possible by excluding extraneous research material, and tapping on the rich resources of researchers doing work in the field. I have developed a methodology called Rapid Research Method, and this enables social anthropologists to conduct accurate field studies at level with those used by economists. By integrating the internet with tools used in RRA and PRA, researchers can now communicate closely with local researchers before conducting field work. This allows them to compare notes and exchange ideas several times in advance through e-mail. This process results in a study balances with an adequate understanding of local circumstances, thereby cutting down on time and expense, as well as improving the quality of information gathering. (refer to Social Impact Table)