Springs of participation: creating and evolving methods for participatory development

Abstract

This book discusses a wide and rich range of participatory methods. The first part of the book focuses on Reflect and the Internal Learning System (ILS). Reflect began as a tool for group work to develop literacy and critical reflection, while ILS was designed to provide information for programme evaluation at the same time as supporting community members to reflect on and change their lives. Both have evolved considerably over a number of years. In the second part of the book, the authors reflect on what enables and constrains creativity, adaptation, and innovation, using examples of many different methodologies to illustrate their discussions. These reflections come from two broad perspectives: from innovators who have all worked principally as independent development consultants and advisors, and from researchers. These two common positions in the world of development and aid give rise to different challenges in creating and using participatory methodologies.