Summary Report of the 1987 International Conference on Rapid Rural Appraisal
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Date
1987
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Khon Kaen University, Thailand; Rural Systems Research and Farming Systems Research Projects
Abstract
This report summarizes the discussions and findings of the 1985 International Conference on Rapid Rural Appraisal (RRA), hosted by Khon Kaen University in Thailand. It highlights the emergence of RRA as a methodology for cost-effective, timely, and high-quality research in rural development. Topics covered include core RRA principles, such as triangulation, the use of indigenous knowledge, interdisciplinary teamwork, and flexibility. The conference drew over seventy participants worldwide to discuss RRA’s applications, methodological range, and the need for training and institutionalization.
Description
The conference focused on the evolution of RRA and its potential for rural development research. Key sessions discussed the need for RRA, methodological tools, application contexts, and guidelines for training. Small-group discussions and field visits were held, enabling participants to share practical insights and challenges associated with RRA implementation. The report reflects a collaborative effort to document best practices, assess the reliability of rapid studies, and propose a framework for future RRA development and institutionalization.
Keywords
Rapid Rural Appraisal (RRA), Rural Development, Development Research, Participatory Research, Triangulation, Interdisciplinary Research, Farming Systems, Indigenous Knowledge, Methodology
Citation
Grandstaff, S. W., Grandstaff, T. E., & Lovelace, G. W. (1987). Summary report of the 1987 International Conference on Rapid Rural Appraisal. In Proceedings of the 1987 International Conference on Rapid Rural Appraisal. Khon Kaen, Thailand: Khon Kaen University.