Conducting field research in rural Bangladesh presents unique challenges and rewards. After several rounds of data collection in climate-affected areas of Satkhira, Khulna, and Cox’s Bazar, I’ve learned lessons that textbooks don’t teach.

Understanding the Context

Bangladesh’s rural communities have been extensively studied by researchers, NGOs, and government agencies. This ‘research fatigue’ is real. Respondents have answered similar questions many times, often without seeing any tangible benefits. Building trust requires genuine engagement, not just questionnaire administration.

Practical Challenges

Transportation: During monsoon season (June-September), many areas in the coastal belt become accessible only by boat. Plan field schedules around weather patterns and tidal cycles.

Connectivity: Mobile networks can be unreliable in chars and remote villages. Design your data collection system to work offline. ODK Collect and SurveyCTO both support offline data entry.

Timing: Agricultural communities have busy seasons. Avoid the aman rice planting season (July-August) and harvest times. Early mornings and late afternoons work better than midday when people rest.

Building Rapport

What works:

  • Introduce yourself through local contacts—Union Parishad members, school teachers, or NGO field staff
  • Explain clearly how the research will be used
  • Dress appropriately for the setting
  • Accept tea when offered—it signals respect and builds connection

Research Ethics in Practice

Informed consent in low-literacy settings requires creativity. Reading a consent form aloud is not enough. Use simple language, allow questions, and ensure participants understand they can refuse without consequences. For sensitive topics like income or migration, privacy is crucial.

The Human Element

The most meaningful insights often come outside formal interviews. Conversations during tea breaks, observations during village walks, and informal discussions reveal context that structured surveys miss. Keep a field diary. These notes become invaluable during analysis and writing.

Field research reminds us that behind every data point is a person navigating complex realities. That perspective should inform how we analyze and communicate our findings.