Knowledge for development: Local and external knowledge in development research

Arbeitspapier

The contribution that science and technology can make to development is well understood - but for new 'knowledge' to have an impact it must connect with existing local knowledge. Presented in this essay is a discussion of how development research projects can make a positive contribution to development, through the use of new science and technology - coupled with local knowledge. Drawing on field research conducted in rural Uzbekistan, under the aegis of a natural science driven project, I reflect here on the meaning of 'development research' and make a case for combining external scientific research with practical development interventions. Specifically, through the use of participatory methods, accepting that development research is a process. This is argued both as academically challenging and interesting as well as ethically necessary for projects choosing to work in the developing world. I discuss my experiences in learning from local knowledge, outlining the principals of affording dignity to local partners, respecting local knowledge and experts, understanding the cultural context of knowledge and maintaining a constant willingness to learn. With these principals I present how it is possible to work in a collaborative manner towards developing locally appropriate and accessible technologies, and the importance of doing so in a sustainable manner.

Angaben zum Objekt

• Sprache: Englisch

Verweise und Beziehungen

• Erschienen in: Series: ZEF Working Paper Series ; No. 12

Klassifikation und Themen

• Klassifikation: Wirtschaft

Beteiligte, Orts- und Zeitangaben

• Ereignis: Geistige Schöpfung
• (wer): Wall, Caleb
• Ereignis: Veröffentlichung
• (wer): University of Bonn, Center for Development Research (ZEF)
• (wo): Bonn
• (wann): 2006

Weitere Informationen

• Handle: http://hdl.handle.net/10419/88351
• URN: urn:nbn:de:0202-20080911120
• Letzte Aktualisierung: 10.03.2025, 11:45 MEZ