ethnography Flashcards
what is ethnography?
ethnography is essentially about embedding the researcher within specific social settings for a prolonged period of time.
what does ethnography do?
Ethnography will develop a richer understanding of the dynamics and complexities of social life, social relations, and the workings of society.
what is valid about ethnography?
Within natural settings the ethnographer observes, listens, and tries to experience and understand ideas and practices from the perspective of those we are studying.
they use mixed methods including in depth interviews and observation, this is also known as qualitative mixed methods.
what is qualitative data?
information collected by interviews, questionnaires or observation.
The material ethnographers collect is then used to construct a detailed description and analysis of the phenomena under investigation.
what do ethnographies do in society?
Ethnographies shed light on aspects of society that can only be accessed through intimate and extended forms of investigation.
what is participant observation?
Participant observation is one the main research methods in a level sociology.
participant observation is part of a observational study, where the researcher joins in with the group being studied and observes their behaviour.
strengths and limitations of covert participant observation.
positives
You can gain access in close smaller groups as the researcher wouldn’t have to ask for permission.
Reactivity is not a problem – if respondents are not aware research is taking place, they are less likely to act differently.
Disadvantages
The problem of taking field notes – it is almost impossible to take notes as you go when in a covert role. In his study of football hooligans, Pearson had to take notes as soon after the matches as possible, but admits that much information was probably forgotten.
Stress – the covert researcher is under constant pressure due to having to ‘maintain a front’ (frontstage, if you like) and on top of this has to then record data back-stage – it’s like working two jobs. Add to this the worry of having your cover blown, and the fact that if this happens, the entire project may be down the drain, and that’s a lot of stress.
Examples about participant observation studies.
Pearson’s covert participant observation study of blackpool football club’s supporters - His approach was to meet up with them in the pub before a match or sometimes on entering the stadium, and to meet up with them afterwards for a drink. He attended seventy-eight matches but notes that because he did not live in the area, he was unable to observe the supporters outside of a football context.Pearson played up his knowledge of the game and the club and was able to integrate himself into their world.
Khan’s (2011, 2014) ethnography of an elite high school in the United States - Khan’s work provides us with a rare ethnographic study of an elite institution. For me, it meant getting a job at St. Paul’s School… I moved into an apartment on campus, and… observed the daily life of the school. After my years at St. Paul’s I returned many times, and I sought out alumni to interview and discuss some of the things I’d learned (Khan 2014).
