Discuss the methods used in applied research

Discuss the methods used in applied research

Applied research in anthropology employs a variety of methods tailored to address specific research questions and objectives, often focusing on real-world problems and issues.

Here are some commonly used methods in applied research:

1. Participant Observation: This method involves anthropologists immersing themselves in the daily lives of the people they study, participating in activities, and observing social interactions firsthand. Participant observation allows researchers to gain deep insights into the cultural beliefs, practices, and social dynamics of the community under study.
2. Interviews: Anthropologists conduct structured or semi-structured interviews with individuals or groups to gather information about their experiences, perspectives, and attitudes. Interviews provide a rich source of qualitative data and allow researchers to explore complex issues in-depth, while also providing opportunities for participants to voice their opinions and concerns.
3. Surveys and Questionnaires: Surveys and questionnaires are used to collect quantitative data from a large number of respondents. Anthropologists design survey instruments to gather information about demographics, behaviors, attitudes, and other variables of interest. Surveys are useful for studying patterns and trends within populations and for making comparisons across different groups.
4. Focus Groups: Focus groups involve bringing together a small group of participants to discuss specific topics or issues in a guided discussion led by a facilitator. Focus groups encourage interaction and dialogue among participants, allowing researchers to explore diverse perspectives, shared experiences, and areas of consensus or disagreement.
5. Ethnographic Mapping: Ethnographic mapping involves the spatial representation of cultural and social phenomena within a community or geographic area. Anthropologists use mapping techniques such as GIS (Geographic Information Systems) to visually represent data related to land use, social networks, resource distribution, and other spatially relevant factors.
6. Documentary Analysis: Anthropologists analyze various types of documents and texts, including archival records, government reports, newspapers, and personal documents, to understand historical and contemporary social phenomena. Documentary analysis provides valuable context and background information for applied research projects and helps to triangulate findings from other sources.
7. Participatory Methods: Participatory methods involve actively involving community members in the research process, from problem identification and research design to data collection and analysis. Participatory approaches empower communities to take ownership of the research process and ensure that research findings are relevant and meaningful to their needs and priorities.
8. Action Research: Action research combines research with practical action to address real-world problems and effect positive change. Anthropologists collaborate with community members and stakeholders to identify problems, develop interventions, implement solutions, and evaluate outcomes in an iterative process of reflection and action.

These methods can be used individually or in combination, depending on the specific objectives and context of the research project. Applied anthropologists often employ a mixed-methods approach that integrates qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis techniques to provide a comprehensive understanding of complex social issues and phenomena.