Participant Observation Flashcards
1
Q
Definition participant observation
A
- observation of a group in the field
- taking part in the daily activities
- off- or online interaction
- = fieldwork
- ≠ ethnography (approach)
2
Q
3 key features of Participant Observation
A
- thick desciptions (describe the context)
- focus on subjective meanings (emic perspective)
- theoretical knowledge
3
Q
Characteristics of Participant Observation
A
- focal point is description and verstehen
less on explanations - time consuming
- demands a lot from a researcher
with criminology PO is mostly done amongst offenders, victims, law enforcement
4
Q
How can data validity be increased?
Participant Observation
A
- disrupting normal routine as little as possible
- holism
- contextuality
- role taking ( experience what they experience)
5
Q
From participation to observation
four types of participant observation
A
- total participant - undercover
- observing participant - insider
- participating observer - hanging around
- total observer - one way mirror
6
Q
What can be observed?
A
- physical location
- actors
- activities
- physical objects
- events
- time sequences
- goals
- feelings
- yourself
7
Q
Observational guide
A
- more a topic list
- can be hybrid
- small and hidden
- stems from the research question
8
Q
Ethical Issues
Participant Observation
A
- do not harm principle
- informed consent
- anonymity and unrecognizability
- protection of respondents
- independent from other agenda’s
- dangerous information
- unfair exchange
- boundaries diffuse
- role conflict
