JSS Medical College
Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) Techniques for immersive community based learning
Context
Participatory Rural Appraisal activities are the qualitative research methods to understand the health problems, needs and demands pf the communities. PRA is a vital tool for understanding rural communities by actively engaging them through dialogues to seek the solutions the problems and challenges.
Objectives
To provide exposure to post graduate students on the qualitative research methods To enhance the capabilities of students in community diagnosis
Process
We conducted an innovative TLM on Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) techniques for our postgraduate students. The session aimed to familiarize postgraduates with the core principles of PRA, focusing on community participation and empowerment. Various PRA techniques, such as social mapping, resource mapping, and seasonal calendars, were demonstrated, giving students hands-on experience in engaging with rural populations. The training equipped the postgraduates with valuable skills for conducting community-based research and interventions, fostering a deeper understanding of rural health issues and resource planning.
Impact: The PRA techniques session was highly informative and practical, providing postgraduate students with a comprehensive grasp of community-based participatory methods. Many participants appreciated the interactive nature of the training, particularly the practical exercises like social and resource mapping. These real-world applications made the techniques more relatable and easier to understand, strengthening their engagement with rural communities. Suggestions for future sessions included incorporating more case studies and field-based exercises to further develop practical skills.