Abstract
This study aims to describe the spatio-temporal aspects of rural daily lives based on natural resource use. We developed new research methodologies using GPS and GIS to collect person-trip data in regions where it is difficult to use questionnaires. By applying the methodology to research conducted in the Vientiane plain, Laos, we have found that this new methodology makes it possible to obtain detailed information about people’s daily activities, specifically: what activities were carried out, at what time, where, and with whom. The research site was Dongkhuwaai Village, Xaithany District, located about 30 km by road from Vientiane. The villagers live traditionally, depending on rice crops in the rainy season and use various natural resources. We analyzed their daily activities both in the rainy season and in the dry season. As a result, we found that the daily activities of the villagers had nature-related constraints. They spent all their time in the settlements and there were no modern forms of time discipline (synchronized activity by household members).
We also investigated the influence of urbanization on rural lives. In recent years, a growing number of foreign companies have begun investing in Vientiane and the vicinity, hoping to take advantage of low labor costs. Commuting to such factories has started from Dongkhuwaai Village. However, the number of commuters is not increasing because villagers already have other sources of income from selling natural resources such as aquatic products, mushroom, bamboo shoots, insects, firewood and so on.
