Dr. Robert Chambers elaborates on Participatory GIS (PGIS) practice

In this video, Dr Robert Chambers outlines both the benefits and dangers of using Participatory GIS (PGIS) in development evaluation. 

Some of the key points he raises are:

• The potential for PGIS is great however it is predicated on the quality of the practice.
• The ethical commitments of those implementing PGIS are essential.
• Lenders and donors must not demand it on a huge scale
• Training is essential and should not be rushed

• The embedding of a series of questions; the who gains and who loses questions; whose map is it and who keeps it is essential

Some of the dangers discussed were:

• Taking peoples time without any recompense.
• Raising people’s expectations beyond what is achievable.
• Endangering or disempowering the people through the information that they share which can be used against them.
• Generating conflicts within or between communities.