1 Orientation to Field Work

Why field work is necessary Why this orientation is necessary What NOT to do in the field What to do in the field Conclusion

Why is field work necessary? You can’t solve a problem unless you really understand it. You can’t solve rural poverty by sitting at a desk in an air-conditioned office on the other side of the world.

Why is this orientation necessary? We hold our field staff to these same rules Rural areas and India are new to many of you Field work is new to almost everyone in the room There have been past incidents!

How NOT to behave Do NOT accept food, water, or anything else from respondents Do NOT smoke, curse, drink alcohol, consume paan, etc. in or around respondents Do NOT take photos of someone without his or her explicit permission Do NOT give money, gifts, etc. to respondents or surveyors

How NOT to behave Do NOT interrupt an ongoing survey, even if you see problems. Instead, immediately after the survey, talk to the surveyor separately. Additionally, inform the supervisor afterwards.

Ladies AND men: Anything “tank top,” camisole, etc. (Even sleeveless is a little risky in the rural areas) Anything above the knee Anything really tight Anything that reveals underwear If you are unsure, ask your fellow RA

What to do in the field Pay attention to what your supervisor asks you to do: he or she knows best how to act in your particular situation. Keep your mobile charged and on, but on SILENT or VIBRATE mode

What to do in the field Be polite. Remember, you are a guest in someone’s home and in someone’s village. Do your best not to attract attention. –Walk behind the surveyors –Sit in the back of a room, instead of at the chair in the front Smile!

What to do in the field Be gracious –Thank the respondent for letting us visit her home and take her time –Thank the surveyor who let you visit