Which of the following is NOT a principle of PRAP?

• A. Random sampling
• B. Offsetting biases (neutralise bias by listening)
• C. Learning from and with rural people
• D. Planning with people

Answer: (A)

Participatory Rural Appraisal focuses on engaging local people directly in gathering information, interpreting it together, and using it to plan actions. Its principles revolve around learning from and with rural people, planning with them, and actively listening to offset personal or expert biases. Random sampling, while common in conventional surveys, doesn’t align with PRA because it aims for broad statistical representativeness rather than deep, context-specific understanding built through participatory processes. PRA methods rely on purposive, flexible, quick activities—like mapping, ranking, and seasonal calendars—to capture local knowledge and priorities. So, random sampling is not a principle of PRA, making it the correct choice.