Social mapping: A potential teaching tool in public health

Background: Mapping is a fundamental way of displaying spatial human cognition. It is a rapid technique of summarising and presenting large amount of information. Social map is a technique that finds use as a participatory rural appraisal tool. Aim: To evaluate the feasibility of using social mapping as a public health teaching tool. Methods: A resident doctor posted in the Urban Health Training Centre was assigned to do social mapping of an urban resettlement colony. The area was first divided into segments. The mapping was done by people residing in each segment and compiled with the assistance of the resident doctor. Results: Social mapping helped the student acquire various cognitive, affective and psychomotor skills. It also helped in understanding the geographical area, people, language, cultural practices, social networks and interactions. It trained the student in using rapid appraisal techniques, cartography, effective and succinct summarising and presentation of data of social relevance. The different language and cultural background of the community was the main challenge encountered. Conclusion: Social mapping is an excellent learning and a very practical teaching tool in public health, especially when the researcher/health care provider has little knowledge about his/her field practice area.