Recommendations to guide sampling effort for polygon-based participatory mapping used to identify perceived ecosystem...

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Social Sciences
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Background:

• Participatory mapping is a valuable tool for understanding spatial variations in ecosystem service perceptions.
• Existing recommendations for sampling effort in participatory mapping, such as a minimum of 25 participants, are based on specific contextual data (e.g., postal questionnaires in Australia).
• The appropriateness of these recommendations across diverse geographical and methodological contexts remains underexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the suitability of current participatory mapping sampling recommendations in a different context.
• To propose an alternative approach for determining data sufficiency in participatory mapping research.
• To enhance the reliability of participatory mapping outputs, particularly when dealing with limited data.

Main Methods:

• Empirical data collection using face-to-face questionnaires in a small Vietnamese coastal area.
• Comparison of findings with existing recommendations for participant and polygon numbers.
• Development and proposal of a modified stepwise approach prioritizing spatial agreement and narrative triangulation.

Main Results:

• The study's empirical findings indicate that the previously recommended minimum of 25 participants may not be optimal or necessary in all participatory mapping contexts.
• A modified approach prioritizing polygon overlap (spatial agreement) over sheer participant or polygon count is suggested for assessing data sufficiency.
• Utilizing qualitative narratives alongside spatial data can effectively reduce uncertainty, especially with lower polygon counts.

Conclusions:

• The effectiveness of participatory mapping sampling strategies is context-dependent and requires flexible approaches.
• Prioritizing spatial agreement and employing narrative triangulation are crucial for robust participatory mapping, particularly in smaller study areas or with limited participant numbers.
• This research contributes to refining methodologies for participatory ecosystem service mapping, ensuring more reliable and contextually relevant data collection.