Traditionally, veterinary research like many other science disciplines has predominantly been carried out using the quantitative approach. However, quantitative tools such as statistical techniques have limitations in that they can only measure associations but cannot explain causal relationships, and thus have limited use in studying complex human phenomena. Thus, qualitative research techniques, particularly participatory methods, are increasingly becoming appreciated in veterinary research, especially where the focus is on the livestock keepers and their livelihoods. In this study, the focus was on pastoralist objectives in cattle keeping, and their strategies and decision-making with regard to vector-borne disease control. A combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches was used to enable flexibility, in-depth exploration of the researched issues, getting the perspectives of the herders, and improving generalisability of the data collected. Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) and case study methods were used in the collection of data during both cross-sectional and longitudinal studies. The study was able to collect and develop a solid data-base of high quality in the area of decision-making in vector-borne disease control. Therefore, participatory and qualitative research methods were found to be highly relevant in veterinary research. Key words: Participatory epidemiology, human phenomenon, veterinary research, participatory learning and action.
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