Rapid Rural Appraisal Techniques

Abstract

This paper examines the application of techniques of rapid rural appraisal (RRA) in fieldwork related to geographical studies of tourism. Rapid rural appraisal techniques occupy the middle ground between the detailed, more objective but time-consuming approach of the academic, and the short-term improvisations of the practitioner. The essential characteristic of the approach is discussed in some detail and its relevance for use in the field by geographers is considered. The paper concludes that rapid rural appraisal Is a research methodology that is of particular value for studies of tourism in developing countries, where the quality and quantity of data is variable and often unreliable. Moreover, it is an approach that could be utilised in urban and developed world contexts.