ABSTRACT

This chapter discusses the different kinds of involvement with informants have been outlined – 'on'; 'on and for'; 'on, for and with'. It introduces the concepts of ethical, advocate and empowering research positions. The chapter discusses epistemological positions – positivism, relativism, realism – according to the potential which they offer for empowering research and generally opted for realism. It focuses on methods of data collection, but the issues of interactivity are important during the formulation of research objectives as well as during writing up. Interactive methods entail a dialogue between the researcher and informants which itself then becomes a large part of the data base. The most formal way of meeting the feedback requirement is to convene meetings for the specific purpose of conveying information to the researched. The value of research, as an activity distinct from education, and distinct from community action, should be emphasised.