To analyze the livelihood system in relation to the external market in terms of

distance to market, area under cultivation and market integration at both household and

village levels.

 Methods

Data Collection and Analysis

 Data for the three villages were collected using three methods: (1) in-depth

interviews of key informants, (2) questionnaires, and (3) informal interviews and

participant observation. All data collection was carried out during an eight-week period

in June/July 2003. Approximately equal time was spent in each of the three villages. This

intensive eight-week research period followed upon a five-year experience in which I

worked in this area as an extension agent for a non-governmental organization.

 In-depth interviews with a key household at each of the three villages were carried

out to have a broad understanding of the livelihood system. The male and the female

were interviewed separately, and considered key informants to gather qualitative

information.

 Questionnaires were applied to a sample of households randomly selected within

each of the three villages. Male and female adults nested within each of the 29

households were queried, representing an average 22% sample (Table 2-1). Quantitative

and qualitative data were gathered about the livelihood strategies of each specific

household, focusing on household composition as well as reproductive, productive and

extractive activities.

 Informal interviews and participant observation were carried out throughout the

field research period. These methods were used to observe the daily activities in the

house, the farm and in the forest to have a better understanding of the livelihood systems.