Rural and peri-urban communities in South Africa: Using innovative qualitative research to hear their voices

Abstract

Research in rural and peri-urban communities in South Africa can yield rich data but requires new thinking on how best to gather data. The right questions need to be asked in an optimal way. This research for a PhD in Environmental Management, sought to determine the influences on pro-conservation attitudes and behaviour in communities surrounding protected areas in South Africa. Few studies in this field are purely qualitative, yet this approach can be an excellent way to investigate attitudes and behaviour. The aim of this paper is to describe the novel multiple-method qualitative approach used, which borrowed from grounded theory and was implemented in three contrasting case studies. The research was situated in the paradigm of constructivism/interpretivism, borrowing from pragmatism. Focus group interviews, mapping, and adapted nominal grouping technique (NGT) were used to collect data. The data were first analysed question-by-question for each case study, using open inductive coding, followed by cross-case analysis which resulted in meta-themes for each research objective. Atlas.ti was used to support analysis. The bouquet of methods proved valuable in gathering and triangulating data. Furthermore, NGT provided a novel means of ranking benefits and costs experienced by communities due to bordering a protected area – to indicate level of importance. Participants largely managed the process independently, and it allowed quieter individuals to be heard. Finally, the researcher found little evidence of mapping (or any drawings) being used in rural/peri-urban research. This unique methodology resulted in practical and theoretical knowledge in environmental management and provides a template for other researchers. It can be applied to business and other management studies requiring research in rural/peri-urban areas. Contributions include a data-derived middle-range substantive theory, accompanied by recommendations for its implementation. To broaden applicability, the theory was then combined with existing literature to produce a comprehensive integrated framework.