Participatory Rural Appraisal - A Critique

Abstract

This document provides a critique of the Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) method, which emerged from Rapid Rural Appraisal (RRA). It discusses the implications of these approaches on rural development, with a focus on their use in planning and monitoring development programs. The critique highlights the limitations of PRA, particularly its reliance on rapid and non-statistical data collection methods, and questions the extent to which it serves the local communities' interests. The paper emphasizes the need for deeper understanding and critical analysis of local realities in the development process.