The Bandongo farmers and BaYaka foragers of the Republic of the Congo
My field work in the Republic of the Congo is focused on the Motaba river area of the Likouala region. Since 2018 I’ve conducted studies in two villages, working with both Bandongo farmers (small scale horticulturalists and fisherman) and BaYaka foragers (small scale horticulturalists, hunters, and gatherers). The first part of this research focused on teaching and learning strategies, as well as the development of executive functioning and tool innovation in the Bandongo farmers. My most recent fieldwork focuses on the development of tool innovation in the BaYaka foragers and was part of a collaboration with Dr. Sheina Lew-Levy, Dr. Tanya Broesch, Dr. Daniel Haun, and Dr. Michelle Kline.
informed Consent/assent
Before conducting research, as with any study, ethical approval was received for all aspects of the research. Prior to any data collection we held meetings with village leaders of both ethnic groups- provided explanation of the research projects and allowed for all questions - and requested permission to conduct the study. After receiving permission, the studies were then re-explained to each participant (and, in the case of children, to a parent or guardian) - again, allowing for any questions. Parental consent and child assent were obtained prior to any data collection. Those opting not to participate received the same compensation for their time as those that did.
media consent
We ask additional consent for any pictures taken - which included an explanation of where the pictures might be shown. Only pictures for which we received full informed consent were kept/are shown.
Future fieldwork
Upcoming field seasons will be focused on piloting and collecting data with both the Bandongo and the BaYaka using a cognitive flexibility task battery, partially funded by the Leakey Foundation and the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology. Stay tuned!
