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Applying the River of Life Method to Support Reflection and Learning in Terre des hommes Nepal
Resource type
Authors/contributors
- Karki, Shanta (Author)
- Giri, Roju (Author)
- Neupane, Sudarshan (Author)
- Snijder, Mieke (Author)
- Apgar, Marina (Author)
Title
Applying the River of Life Method to Support Reflection and Learning in Terre des hommes Nepal
Abstract
The RoL method is a visual narrative method that helps people tell stories of the past, present, and future. Individuals can use this method to introduce themselves in a fun and descriptive way. A group can use it to understand and reflect on the past and imagine the future of a project. Besides, it can also be used to build a shared view of a process over time while acknowledging different and perhaps contradictory perspectives. The method uses drawings rather than text, making it useful in groups that do not share a common language. Metaphors from a river are used to explore aspects of a story – such as whirlpools depicting challenges or lakes suggesting a sense of calm etc. When used in a group, it is an active method, engaging people in the process of storytelling and listening through visualising their experiences and using metaphors to explore in depth.
In CLARISSA, we adapted the RoL method to document our collective understanding of the story of implementation
of the programme as part of the programme’s monitoring, evaluation and learning component. The purpose was to
surface the details of our process of the systemic Action Research that we are undertaking with children in the worst
forms of child labour and business owners. We used the same river metaphors as is often applied when the method is
used with individuals.
Report Number
4
Series Title
CLARISSA Learning Note
Place
Brighton
Institution
Institute of Development Studies
Date
2023-09
Language
en
Accessed
05/10/2023, 09:07
Library Catalogue
opendocs.ids.ac.uk
Extra
Accepted: 2023-09-18T10:13:55Z
Publisher: Institute of Development Studies
Citation
Karki, S., Giri, R., Neupane, S., Snijder, M., & Apgar, M. (2023). Applying the River of Life Method to Support Reflection and Learning in Terre des hommes Nepal (No. 4; CLARISSA Learning Note). Institute of Development Studies. https://opendocs.ids.ac.uk/opendocs/handle/20.500.12413/18112
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