Research studies which are carried out in rural setting have contextual issues like illiteracy, and hence written forms of data collection cannot always be used there. While participatory methods like maps, drawings, pictures and diagrams are recommended in these scenarios, the sensitive nature of research queries often render participatory exercises ineffective.
Acknowledging this, we conceived a “polling booth” methodology which balances confidentiality concerns, information requirements and ease of data collection. This methodology uses ballot boxes and coloured cards for recording responses that are mostly of a “Yes” or “No” nature. It thus ensures confidentiality and anonymity of respondents, thereby facilitating uninhibited responses.