Walk and talk/Exploratory walk

ACTIVITY TYPE

DESCRIPTION

An exploratory walk is a field observation method done by a small group. This is a flexible tool that brings people to explore and observe water management spaces and areas. Depending on the materials provided to participants (observation sheets, base maps, rating scales, etc.), you can also collect valuable qualitative data. Empowering stakeholders from the local area to lead these walks is also an excellent way for them to share their lived expertise and to position them as knowledge holders.

Suitable for location-based projects.

WATER/ AGRICULTURE EXAMPLE

It is designed to identify both positive aspects and areas of concern e.g. in a water management area. Some of the walk participants should work in the area (farmers, environmental protection workers), but you can also extend invitations to decision-makers, other environment professionals and organizational partners or planning professionals to help implementation happen in the future.

HOW TO USE IT ONLINE  

Virtual tour and online discussion. 

RESOURCES NEEDED

SUITABLE FOR  

HOW TO DO IT  

1. Provide participants with a map on which stops are marked.

2. The organizers will lead the walk with selected stops determined in advance and listed. At each stop have participants exchange perspectives and write down notes on things they notice. 

3. Once you have completed your walk, discuss participants’ experiences. Ask a few open-ended questions to encourage discussion around possible improvements. 

4. Collect all the participants’ maps and audit pages, and compile the data on you walking interviews.

5. You may conduct the follow up interviews after some time of the walk, inform participants about this. 

ADVANTAGES

CHALLENGIES

VARIATIONS 

Emotional mapping 

This tool allows participants to explore their emotional responses while moving through their neighbourhoods. Use a printed base map, a colour key representing different emotions and stickers or markers. Allow participants to map out their emotions as they walk. This tool can be used independently in people’s free time or as a facilitated group walk.

MORE INFORMATION

https://participatoryplanning.ca/tools/exploratory-walk

https://participatoryplanning.ca/tools/emotional-mapping

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