International Science Community Association International Research Journal of Social Sciences 15 3 2026 07 14 Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) as a Tool for Rural Development and Experiential Learning: Evidence from Field Practice in Kolhapur District, Maharashtra, India 10 17 EN Nadaf Ayisha 1 Basaveshwar Commerce College, Bagalkot, Karnataka, India Fernandes Evelyn Savia 1 Department of Sociology, Government College of Arts, Science & Commerce, Quepem– Goa, India Gaunkar Sayali Krishnanand 2 Department of Sociology, Government College of Arts, Science & Commerce, Quepem– Goa, India Dashwant Urmila P. 1 Yashwantrao Chavan School of Rural Development, Shivaji University, Kolhapur, Maharashtra, India > Research Paper 2026 4 29 2026 07 14 Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) is widely recognized as an effective participatory approach that promotes community involvement in rural development planning and decision-making. The present study examines the role of PRA camps conducted by social work students in facilitating rural development processes and enhancing experiential learning. The study is based on field-based participatory research conducted in three villages of Kolhapur district in Maharashtra—Donvadi (2022), Sawantwadi (2023), and Sheloshi (2024). Using participatory techniques such as social mapping, resource mapping, seasonal calendars, wealth ranking, focus group discussions, and Gram Sabha participation, the research documents local socio-economic conditions and development priorities. The findings indicate that PRA camps contributed significantly to identifying local development issues, strengthening community awareness, and supporting grassroots planning mechanisms such as the Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP). The camps also provided social work students with valuable experiential learning opportunities, including development of communication skills, participatory facilitation abilities, and understanding of rural governance systems. The study highlights the importance of integrating participatory fieldwork within social work education to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical engagement with rural communities. The paper concludes that PRA-based field learning contributes not only to academic training but also to participatory development and community empowerment. Copyright@ International Science Community Association