Towards a Relational Understanding of Development Research

Abstract

For experienced and inexperienced researchers and practitioners alike, this engaging text opens up new perspectives on conducting fieldwork in the Global South.

Following an interdisciplinary and intergenerational approach, Understanding Global Development brings into dialogue reflections on fieldwork experiences by leading scholars along with accounts from early career researchers. Contributions are organised around six key issues:

Meaningful participation in fieldwork Working in dangerous environments Gendered experiences of fieldwork Researching elites Conducting fieldwork with marginalized people Fieldwork in development practice

The experience-led discussion of each of the topics conveys a sense of what it truly feels like to be out in the field and provides readers with useful insights and practical advice. A relational framework highlights issues relating to power, identity, and ethics in development fieldwork, and encourages reflection on how researcher engagement with the field shapes our understanding of global development.