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This slideshare will attempt to outline the importance and application of gender sensitivity in field research.
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Gender Sensitivity in Field ResearchMeysoon AminUniversity of GuelphEDRD6000: Qualitative Analysis March 10, 2014
Outline Gender vs. Sex Issues in Traditional Research Introduction to Gender Sensitive
Research Tools and Tips for using Gender
Sensitive Research Application: Rio Tinto Case Study Summary
Gender vs. SexGender Sex
Gender refers to the socially constructed difference between men and women
Acquired identity that can vary according to: time, culture, social class, religion and region
Sex refers to the biological difference between men and women
Determined by genetic and anatomical characteristics-biologically fixed
Very limited concept
Source: The World Bank (2013)
Gender differences Sex differences
Issues with Traditional Research
Traditional research is
often gender blind, which is an obstacle to participatory
and sustainable development
Experiences and contributions of men and women are unequally
valued—Aspects associated with masculinity are viewed as being
more important
Ethical Issues: contributions and perspectives of
women are commonly underestimated and in some cases undocumented
Results in important aspects of the problem or situation remaining unclear—incomplete
picture of the problem, which may
lead to misunderstandings
The lack of gender sensitivity in traditional
research, can lead to unequal
opportunities, segregation and discrimination
Gender Sensitive ResearchWhat
is Gende
r Sensiti
ve Resear
ch?
• Research that considers gender to be a significant variable in environmental and developmental studies (Leduc, 2009)
• Emphasizes the perspectives, contributions and needs of both men and women
• Pays attention to the similarities and differences between men and women’s experiences and viewpoints—gives them equal value
Benefits
• Gender sensitive research methodologies are more participatory in nature and can include a wider demographic of people
• Capable of empowering marginalized people, especially women, by acknowledging and valuing their contribution
• Integrating a gender perspective can improve the relevance, coverage, and quality of research which can lead to more effective and efficient solutions
Tools and Tips for using Gender Sensitive Research
Gender sensitive research should identify the impacts of proposed solutions on men and women; their workload, access to resources, social status as well as power dynamics.
Gender dimensions are incorporated into every aspect of the research design:• Problem identification• Formulation of
conceptual and analytical framework
• Methodology• Analysis • Dissemination of
results
Source: European Commission. Directorate-General for Research (2009)
Tools and Tips for using Gender Sensitive Research
Formulate gender sensitive research question
Should address how men and women are being/might be affected by the issue and how they are involved (Leduc, 2009)
Formulate conceptual framework reflecting gender experiencesAvoid male bias and assumptions about gender roles and capacities.
Ensure a realistic and inclusive approach (Leduc, 2009)
Determine if gender is a significant variableAny research that involves or affects humans should consider the
realities of both men and women (CFIR, 2013).
Report Data in a Gender Sensitive WayAlways use gender sensitive language in the report. Remember to include different
perspectives when defining concepts. And lastly, avoid biased and prejudice terminology, as well as overall generalizations (Leduc, 2009).
Collect and Analyze Gender Disaggregated DataExamine the differences in men and women’s: reproductive roles and tasks, division of labour and responsibilities, power relations, social status, as well as access to and control over resources, at the household or community level (EU,
2009)
Develop Gender Sensitive MethodologyUse participatory methods that are inclusive (equal representation of both men and women), respectful, accountable and context-dependent. They should reflect
people’s perspectives and viewpoints (Leduc, 2009). Examples: in-depth household interviews, gender disaggregated mapping and
focus group discussions
Case Study: Rio Tinto in MongoliaBackground: The Ivanhoe-Rio Tinto Mining Committee wanted to introduce a mining complex into the Aimag Umnugovi area of Mongolia. Stakeholders were interested in assessing the social, economic and physical impact of the mines. As such, they conducted a gender sensitive baseline study to understand the cultural context of the area.
Case Study:http://www.riotinto.com/rio-apps/riotinto_operationmap/pdf/Case_study_3_%20Rio_Tinto_in_Mongolia.pdf
Identified gender as a significant variable
Looked at how construction of mines would affect both men and women
Gender was the main selection criteria
Gender-sensitive research question
Identify the socio-economic impact of the mines on men and women at the local household level
Methodology Social baseline study, focus groups and social mapping at the household level Equal opportunities for both men and women Questionnaires and participatory methods
(ensures all sections of society represented)
Data collection and analysis
Gender disaggregated data collection (gender roles and responsibilities in Mongolian culture)
Findings Deeper understanding of gender, socio-economic and cultural aspects of the area
Summary It’s important to remember that when addressing a problem with a gender sensitive approach, a general understanding of the context and a consistent awareness of our own biases is required.
Our biases, and societal views of gender often dictate the way we approach a problem.
In summary, gender sensitive research helps strengthen our understanding and analysis of a problem, and ultimately helps in developing sustainable solutions, that reflect the realities of both men and women.
References Arango, D. (2013). Gender toolkit for international finance-watchers.
Retrieved from Gender Action website: http://www.genderaction.org/publications/IFI-Watcher_Toolkit.pdf
Congress of South African Trade Unions (2000, June). Understanding Gender - a struggle within a struggle. Retrieved from http://www.cosatu.org.za/show.php?ID=2168
Center for International Forestry Research (2013). Does your proposal demonstrate appropriate attention to gender issues? Retrieved from CGIAR website: http://www.cifor.org/publications/pdf_files/infobrief/4155-brief.pdf
European Commission. Directorate-General for Research (2009). Gender in EU-funded research: Toolkit. Retrieved from European Commission website: http://www.yellowwindow.be/genderinresearch/downloads/YW2009_GenderToolKit_Module1.pdf
The World Bank (2013). Gender and Development - Defining Gender. Retrieved from http://web.worldbank.org/WBSITE/EXTERNAL/TOPICS/EXTGENDER/0,,contentMDK:20193040~pagePK:210058~piPK:210062~theSitePK:336868,00.html