Social methods

In contrast to survey-based research methods, social methods are predominantly contextual, trading off breadth of coverage and statistical generalisability against the ability to explore issues in depth. Social methods can be applied to both secondary and primary research. Using secondary literature, the systematic review method can determine the likely impact of a policy initiative by developing an answerable question, searching for relevant research (and other evidence) and producing a summary of what the existing evidence tells us. Primary social research employs a range of ethnographic methods for in-depth understanding of complex phenomona. Through direct observation, researchers are able to elicit qualitative data relating to social relations, cultural practices, livelihood activity and the level and distribution of community resources that will inform analysis of the likely impact of policy reform. Participant observation is a method for gathering data that involves the researcher participating in the activities of the community in order to establish greater levels of trust and elicit more detailed information and understanding of cause and effect and distributional issues relating to poverty. Conversational interviews allow the researcher to explore in an open and flexible way the dynamics underpinning transmissions from the macro to the micro level and provide an environment in which respondents are not influenced by the presence of peers or more powerful actors in a group setting. Focus group discussions allow for organized group analysis of phenomena, processes and relationships from the perspective of a pre-identified social group.