Participatory approaches contain a variety of data collection methods:
(a) participatory listening and observation;
(b) visual tools such as maps, daily activity diagrams, institutional diagrams and Venn diagrams, flow diagrams and livelihood analysis;
(c) semi-structured interviews; and
(d) focus group discussions.
Among the participatory methods of evaluation, semi-structured interviews and focus groups are the most often used instruments for gathering the views of participants on certain topics and issues. Participatory listening and observation and various visual tools would normally be undertaken at the initial stages of the evaluation process as they often provide the basis for the design of in-depth questionnaires for semi-structured interviews and the conduct of focus groups
(Source: Venne R. 2005. "Framework for Monitoring, Review and Appraisal of the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing." UN DESA: Division for Social Policy and Development).