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Using Participatory Mapping to Explore Participation in the Voluntary Sector . Eddie Cowling (Involve) Researcher on the Pathways Through Participation project. What is a map?. Maps come in many forms Maps are socially constructed Conventionalised Shaped by political, economic, social
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Using Participatory Mapping to Explore Participation in the Voluntary Sector Eddie Cowling (Involve) Researcher on the Pathways Through Participation project
What is a map? • Maps come in many forms • Maps are socially constructed • Conventionalised • Shaped by political, economic, social and cultural discourses of the time • Appealing means of communication • Can represent time • Relational • Reflect the map-maker’s worldview
Participatory Mapping • Draws on valuable local knowledge • Recognises local people are capable research collaborators • Encourages diverse involvement • Fosters empowerment • Literacy and geography skills not essential
Community mapping in India to help decide where a well and latrines should be placed www.wateraid.org
Participatory mapping exercise in Kent, UK, exploring support needed by fathers to better engage in their children's’ lives http://www.enginegroup.co.uk
How are we going to use PM? Pathways Through Participation • The project will explore how and why people get involved and stay involved in different forms of participation over the course of their lives. • Participation means many things to many different people. The project will look at participation in a very broad sense and consider the act of taking part in a wide range of social or civic activities.
How are we going to use PM? • First stage of data collection: gauge the range of opportunities and activities for voluntary engagement in the local area and beyond. • Several mapping sessions in each community • Explore the mapping process, not just the maps themselves • Maps will aid the preparation of the second phase of the research...
Key Factors... • Practical considerations • Format • GIS • Participant recruitment • Encouraging participation across the group • Time capacity • Participant responsibility To ensure success: • Commitment to collaboration • Dissemination and follow-up action plan
Second phase... • In-depth interviews, supplemented by the maps, and maybe... • Photo elicitation? • Timelines? • Walking interviews?
We are new to Participatory Mapping, so... • Has anyone had any experience of participatory mapping? • Any advice? • Any comments or questions? To find out more about the Pathways project www.pathwaysthroughparticipation.org.uk