HMDVA81
Assignment 5
Due August 2025
, HMDVA81
Assignment 5
Due August 2025
Question 1: Data Collection Strategy
1. Justification for Methodological Approach
This study employs participatory qualitative methods—specifically focus group
discussions (FGDs), in-depth interviews (IDIs), and participant observation—because
they align with the objective of co-producing knowledge with local actors. Rather than
treating participants as passive sources of data, these methods position them as co-
constructors of meaning. This reflects a participatory epistemology in which local
knowledge and lived experience are integral to valid and actionable research (Cornwall
& Jewkes, 1995). Such an approach is especially suited to GBV research, which
requires sensitivity to emotional, cultural, and relational complexities that are not easily
captured through quantitative instruments.
2. Methodological Components
2.1 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs)
FGDs are used to examine shared beliefs, social norms, and collective experiences
related to GBV. Homogenous groups—based on gender, age, or survivor status—
provide a safe and contextually grounded space for open dialogue. Prompts such as
“What forms of GBV are most common in this community?” or “How do people typically
respond when GBV occurs?” enable exploratory discussion and elicit dominant
narratives, contested perspectives, and community silences. This method is particularly
effective for identifying normative frameworks and social expectations. Skilled facilitation
is essential to mitigate power imbalances and encourage participation from all group
members.
Assignment 5
Due August 2025
, HMDVA81
Assignment 5
Due August 2025
Question 1: Data Collection Strategy
1. Justification for Methodological Approach
This study employs participatory qualitative methods—specifically focus group
discussions (FGDs), in-depth interviews (IDIs), and participant observation—because
they align with the objective of co-producing knowledge with local actors. Rather than
treating participants as passive sources of data, these methods position them as co-
constructors of meaning. This reflects a participatory epistemology in which local
knowledge and lived experience are integral to valid and actionable research (Cornwall
& Jewkes, 1995). Such an approach is especially suited to GBV research, which
requires sensitivity to emotional, cultural, and relational complexities that are not easily
captured through quantitative instruments.
2. Methodological Components
2.1 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs)
FGDs are used to examine shared beliefs, social norms, and collective experiences
related to GBV. Homogenous groups—based on gender, age, or survivor status—
provide a safe and contextually grounded space for open dialogue. Prompts such as
“What forms of GBV are most common in this community?” or “How do people typically
respond when GBV occurs?” enable exploratory discussion and elicit dominant
narratives, contested perspectives, and community silences. This method is particularly
effective for identifying normative frameworks and social expectations. Skilled facilitation
is essential to mitigate power imbalances and encourage participation from all group
members.
