Rapid Ethnographic Assessments

This practical guide explores rapid ethnographic assessments, emphasizing their application in public health and providing tools for effective research.

This book serves as a practical guide for understanding and conducting rapid ethnographic assessments (REAs), particularly within public health contexts. By emphasizing a team-based, multi-method approach, Rapid Ethnographic Assessments enables readers to gain rich insights into the social, economic, and policy factors that contribute to the underlying causes of emerging situations. The authors, Thurka Sangaramoorthy and Kroeger, present a framework that is not only effective but also relatively low-cost, making it accessible for various researchers and professionals.

Through real-world examples and case studies, Rapid Ethnographic Assessments introduces readers to essential concepts, principles, and methods associated with REAs. The book covers key techniques such as interviews, observations, triangulation, and qualitative analysis, providing a comprehensive understanding of how to conduct these assessments effectively. Additionally, it offers practical guidance for planning and implementing REAs, as well as tips for transforming findings into coherent reports and actionable recommendations.

Designed to be user-friendly, the materials and tools included in the book aim to assist readers in applying REA methods to their own research, regardless of the topic or discipline. By fostering collaboration with communities, this applied approach can serve as a catalyst for meaningful action. Rapid Ethnographic Assessments will resonate with professionals and researchers seeking to enhance research efficiency and productivity while pursuing action-oriented and translational research across diverse fields and contexts.