QRMSS Ch. 6 Ethnography

Ethnography is the study of culture, and as ethnographers we strive for that “thick, rich description”, so others can learn of the world outside their immediate surroundings. In our role of researcher, we always need to be upfront with participants as to our intentions of project and where we stand. It is important to be honest, transparent and keep integrity while working with others. We use these systematic observations, as our goal is to come to a shared meaning of what or who is being studied. We fact find, not necessarily problem solve, although that data can be used to change policies. This type of ethnography is referred to as critical ethnography, where we use data to seek positive change.

There can be difficulties getting into sites. For this we look to a ‘gatekeeper” to build trust and friendship, as they hold the power to allow our access into said sites. Gatekeepers can help or prohibit our access to sites or people. They can create a “snowball” effect and open doors to obtaining more participants. It is important to go into mission with an understanding of culture you’re studying and know their nuances as to not offend anyone. In certain situations, you can go in covertly, not announcing why you’re there, while collecting your data, but being completely aware of your surroundings. In these scenarios, researcher’s status is “invisible”. Sometimes this can help offset the Hawthorne effect, meaning, “when subjects know they are subjects in a research study, they will alter their usual routine or behavior”. (Berg, 2001 p.217)

There can also be danger associated with ethnographic research. Ambient research speaks of research studies being done in a bad area of town. Sometimes we can be in the wrong place at the wrong time, so possibilities of being assaulted or harmed go up. It’s very important to be alert and always aware of your surroundings. Situational danger can be triggered by your presence.

While taking field notes, try not to be so obvious.

An assignment for this class was given to observe 3 days, for 15 minutes, the same area and take field notes. I did this over the weekend at my job. I work in a barbershop at the Rim and I observed interactions between barbers both male and female and their clients. I covertly situated myself and began with my jottings. I had to condense conversations, make them brief. I described my surroundings, the sounds, which consisted of classic rock music every day and the constant hum of the hair clippers turning on and off. I did feel a little creepy recording conversations. I know it’s anonymous, but I really overheard some interesting things. I also heard and realized the pattern of playful banter that a barber has with a recurring guest. The relationship that is built. I realized the dramaturgical aspect, the role the barber plays while engaged with client. I too, have this routine as I myself am a stylist, but it was a challenge and thought provoking to step back as an objective observer and place my bias aside.

Now we can observe field notes and begin to sort out the patterns and themes. I hope that I will be able to have the chance to observe some yoga therapy (through my mentors who I will be interviewing), in action. I can see how this could definitely benefit my research!