Action Research Tools: Brainstorming, SWOT Analysis, and Participatory Mapping

Participatory Research Instruments

The workshop at the IA, focused on practical application, aims to foster debate and reflection on specific project aspects. The most important instruments in Action Research (AI) are those that induce participation throughout the research process. These include: Brainstorming, the SWOT Method, Maps, and Participant Surveys.

Brainstorming Technique

Brainstorming allows for the formation of a common group and the collection of all views, knowledge, or experiences related to a previously proposed theme. The development is very simple:

1. The researcher presents an issue clearly and poses a question to be answered by each group component.
2. Participants propose and discuss their ideas.
3. The researcher notes these ideas in a visible place for all.
4. In light of the objectives, the ideas proposed are grouped or categorized.

The Logical Framework Workshop is a variant of the storm of ideas where colored cards are used to assign different concepts. Participants note one concept per card, and the cards are then grouped by color.

SWOT Analysis Method (Weaknesses, Threats, Strengths, Opportunities)

Its objective is to ascertain the situation of the studied population, taking into account how the group interprets their subjective circumstances and how those circumstances are objectively observed. A double-entry table is used for analysis, considering internal and external circumstances, as well as risk factors and success factors for the people involved. The resulting boxes indicate the Weaknesses, Threats, Strengths, and Opportunities (SWOT) of the group.

SWOT Matrix Structure

Weaknesses

These are the internal, negative circumstances within the group that can be objectively tested.

Strengths

These are the internal, positive circumstances of the studied group related to the problem that can be objectively tested.

Threats

These are hypothetical external circumstances that may act negatively on the problem.

Opportunities

These are the positive external circumstances that can promote conflict resolution.

Participatory Mapping

Maps do not seek to obtain initial information from the group. Like any graphic representation, their implementation aims to facilitate the understanding of a complex phenomenon and reduce its size to common categories. Three types of maps are typically created:

1. Physical Maps: These describe the terrain and elements relevant to the community, depicting physical features.
2. Social Maps: These seek information about the community's social structure and the way differences or relationships manifest.
3. Transects: These maps are created by different groups when they travel along tours prefixed by researchers, noting specific items they are requested to seek.