Step 3

Social map

description

A social map is a map that is drawn by residents, showing the social structures and institutions found in an area. It also helps to learn about social and economic differences between the households.

objectives

To learn about the social structures in a community, city or area and the differences among the households by ethnicity, religion and wealth
To learn about who is living where
To learn about the social institutions and the different views local people might have regarding those institutions

key questions

What are the approximate boundaries with regard to social interaction and social services?
How many households are found and where are they located?
Is the number of households growing or shrinking?
What are the social structures and institutions?
What religious groups are found? Where do the different religious groups live?
What ethnic groups are found? Where do the different ethnic groups live?
Which are the female-headed households and where are they located?

how to facilitate

Ask the participants to draw a map of the area, showing all households. For orientation, it will be helpful to draw roads and significant spots (temple, school, police post, etc..) into the map.
Discuss whether the total number of households has increased or shrunk during recent years. If there were any changes, ask why the number has changed and whether this has caused any problem for certain families or for the community at large.
Ask the group to also show institutions, buildings and places that offer some kind of social service or which are popular spots to meet and converse. Example: schools, churches, clinic, traditional healers, community administration, community leaders, local shop, places where people frequently meet, water point, etc.
Encourage the group to discuss and show on the map where different ethnic groups are living. Using a common symbol, mark those households in which the minority ethnic groups live.
Encourage the group to discuss and show on the map where different religious groups are living. Using a common symbol, mark those households in which the minority religious groups live.
Ask the group to indicate with a symbol on the map all households that are female-headed. Make sure that everybody has the same understanding of what the characteristics of a female-headed household are!
Make sure that your copy of the map has a key explaining the different items and symbols used on the map.

material needed

Documentation sheet, this tool sheet, white paper for copying the map. If drawing on the ground, use soft ground, sticks and local material for symbols. If drawing on paper, use a BIG sheet of paper, pencils, and markers.

time

1.5 – 2 hours

hints

If people find it difficult to understand this tool, it will be helpful to draw a simple example for them.
During the whole process, take care that once somebody has given a statement, you ask the others whether they agree, disagree or want to add something.
The notetaker must ensure that all important points of the discussion and also other information is documented.
The purpose of the social map must be very clear to all participants, make sure that the participants do not have wrong expectations. For example, they might think that the poor households will get food donations, which is not accurate or the purpose of the exercise.
Unlike resource mapping, social maps need good and well-prepared facilitation. Be aware that some of the issues that might be discussed could be sensitive issues for the group.
Make sure that the objective of having all households shown on the map will be achieved.

Download the Social Map Documentation Sheet