A review of participatory research techniques for natural resources management

The participatory techniques reviewed here include agroecosystem analysis, rapid rural appraisal and participatory rural appraisal. The focus is on Indonesia, and numerous groups were contacted for information on their use of participatory research techniques. The three approaches (AEA, RRA, PRA) are outlined with their development, main features, strengths and weaknesses, and case studies detailed for each. Other projects using similar tools in Indonesia are tabled. Barriers to the further development of participatory techniques, such as organisational constraints, methodological issues and the lack of human resources and training. Finally, the potential for the use of AEA, RRA and PRA is discussed, and recommendations made, such as increased networking and forging links with government policy makers. Limited examples of PRA tools are given in an appendix.