Using Central-Place Methods To Evaluate Agricultural Development Projects
How to assess the impacts of agricultural development projects is an evaluator's dilemma. Anthropologists who carry out such analyses often find that their field time is too short for careful, systematic coverage. Some object to the resulting studies, which they term "quick and dirty," and opt out of applied work. This reaction, however, does not discharge the obligation to reliably inform donors whether, where, and to what extent project activities have benefited local participants. Happily, there are scientifically responsible ways in which the challenge can be met and by which one can continue to do practical anthropology. This report on evaluation of an agricultural development project in Zaire provides one brief example in the hope that it will stimulate others to share their knowledge of rapid assessment methods and, in the process, increase the visibility and value of practical anthropology in public and private donor agencies.