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