Hosting Institutions: University of Copenhagen
Role research Assistant in this Master’s Thesis Curtis Higson
During my tenure as a full-time Research Assistant at the University of Copenhagen, I contributed to a significant research project titled “The Effects of Integrated Conservation and Development Projects on the Livelihoods of Local Inhabitants: A Case Study from Gaurishankar Conservation Area, Nepal.” My role involved a multifaceted approach to data collection and analysis, which was critical for the project’s success.
I was actively involved in the preparation of fieldwork and questionnaires over a 30-day period, meticulously designing data collection methods tailored to the needs of the study. This preparation laid the foundation for comprehensive data gathering and ensured that our approach was both systematic and effective.
Throughout the research, I conducted over 70 interviews across two mid-hills regions of Nepal: Bulung Dolakha and Sindhupalchok, specifically in the villages of Marming and Phulping Katti. These interviews included household surveys, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions, allowing us to capture diverse perspectives on the impacts of conservation and development projects on local livelihoods. My ability to build a strong local network with representatives in these areas facilitated access to vital information and enhanced the research’s relevance.
I also took on the crucial tasks of translating and transcribing the interviews, ensuring that the rich narratives of local inhabitants were accurately captured and represented in our findings. During the dissertation phase, I assisted in data processing, quality control, and analysis, providing support in organizing and interpreting the data to derive meaningful insights. My contributions were instrumental in shaping the research outcomes, reflecting both the complexities of local livelihoods and the broader implications of integrated conservation efforts.
Through this experience, I not only honed my research skills but also deepened my understanding of the socio-economic dynamics within rural communities in Nepal, ultimately contributing to the project’s goal of fostering sustainable development in the Gaurishankar Conservation Area.
Details about this research project:
