Using qualitative geographic information systems to explore gendered dimensions for conservation agriculture production systems in the Philippines: A mixed methods approach

Abstract

This research identifies gender-based constraints and opportunities for the adoption of conservation agriculture production systems (CAPS) based on a case-study with smallholder farmers in two villages in Misamis Oriental, Philippines. It explores gendered soil knowledge and perceptions, access to resources, and agricultural practices in the context of food security and soil conservation. This approach combines qualitative and quantitative methods such as focus group discussions, household interviews, participatory mapping, and GPS mapping. I found that men and women have gendered soil perceptions which are linked to topography, gender roles, and access to assets. These could have implications for whether men and women adopt conservation agriculture. I also demonstrate the importance of combining geospatial techniques and participatory methods for gender research in a development context. Much of the qualitative GIS literature focuses on incorporating qualitative data into a GIS, yet I argue it is important to incorporate geospatial tools into qualitative, participatory research to understand the spatiality of people’s perceptions, practices, and resources.