Explore the Health Issue and Set Priorities
Documenting the information
Many of the methods mentioned above are dynamic and stimulate lively conversation and dialogue. How can information gatherers best document this information so that it is not lost to later analysis? A number of options can be considered, with some of the most frequently used methods presented in the table on the following page, in order of least invasive to more invasive. When discussing some topics and/or in some cultural contexts, individuals or groups may not want to be video- or audiotaped, though their attitude may change if they are in control of the taping. In some settings, people dislike being photographed or filmed. In one community in Bolivia, members of a women’s group did not want their views on family planning written in the field notebook until they were able to ensure that the notebook would stay under their control in the community. It is always important to explain the documentation method options to participants and ask which methods are acceptable to them. They should understand what the information will be used for and who will have possession of the information when it is documented.
| Documentation Method | Skills needed | Materials needed | Level of Accuracy |
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| Note making after the session | Read, be able to take dictation (write quickly and legibly without interpreting or changing content), listen, speak and understand the languages spoken, good memory | Paper, pens or pencils, surface to write on | Varies markedly depending on the skill of the note-maker. As they must rely on memory, accuracy may be compromised. Usually does not record vocal inflections or non-verbal communication. |
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| Note taking during the session | Read, be able to take dictation (write quickly and legibly without interpreting or changing content), listen, speak and understand the languages spoken | Paper, pens or pencils, surface to write on | Varies markedly depending on the skill of the note-taker. Usually does not record vocal inflections or non-verbal communication. |
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| Audio recording (audio-cassettes/CDs) | Be able to use a tape recorder and change tapes when they run out. | Tape or CD recorder, tapes or CDs | Good if quality of recording is adequate. When recording outside or in rooms with echoes sound can be distorted and words may be difficult to understand. Does not capture non-verbal communication. |
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| Video taping | Be able to use a video recorder, change tapes, follow discussion to capture speakers when they speak. | Video camera, tapes | Very good if quality of recording is adequate and operator has been able to film speakers. Records exact dialogue, vocal inflection and non-verbal communication. |
      
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