ABSTRACT
In Chapter 2, “Key considerations in planning for a rapid ethnographic assessment,” we outline key concepts and considerations of REAs. Specifically, we detail the kinds of questions a REA is best designed to address and whether REAs are applicable and appropriate for certain types of research or programmatic questions. Further, we consider decisions related to the design and scope of the REA. We also discuss the various types of expertise (e.g., technical, lay, etc.) needed, the time and resource commitments required, and the types of dissemination plans of REA findings to consider. We focus on the roles of local, community stakeholders, including the role of community members in identifying study objectives and selecting appropriate study designs. Finally, we discuss the role of funding and funders (e.g., government, non-profit, etc.) and the complexity of data ownership. We contend that these issues are particularly important for those who are located outside the academy (i.e., communities) as it may have serious implications for data ownership, retention, and access. We also offer sample budget items.
