Observational and Ethnographic Methods

Overview:

This live online Zoom course introduces you to ethnographic methods and observation which are valuable techniques in qualitative research where the focus is on understanding in great depth the meanings, views, behaviours, beliefs and actions of a particular culture, group or organisation. Ethnography typically involves extended periods of time ‘in the field’, while participant observation and observational techniques can also be used to examine groups and cultures in a shorter time period and alongside other methods.

We also look at examples of what Wall (2004) calls ‘focused ethnography’ in order to examine how observational methods can be used in a shorter timescale than a ‘traditional’ ethnography, and in applied settings in order to understand for example organisational cultures and behaviours. We review ethnographers' reflections of conducting fieldwork in a variety of contexts in order to demonstrate the benefits and drawbacks of these approaches.

This training includes practical elements such as workshop discussions, observations, writing field notes and reflecting on these. Therefore participants should have a working microphone and camera in order to be able to take part live via Zoom.

We cover:

- The history of ethnography and participant observation

- The principles and techniques of ethnography

- The importance of an inductive and reflexive approach

- Defining the 'field' and 'multi-sited' ethnography

- Accessing the field, gatekeepers, and building rapport

- The practicalities of fieldwork

- Recording data and taking field notes

- An introduction to new approaches: virtual ethnography, go-along methods, sensory ethnography

- 'Focused' or 'applied ethnography’

- Ethics in ethnography

Who should attend?

This course will be useful for researchers who are new to qualitative methods and/or who wish to brush up on their knowledge of ethnography and obervational methods. This includes PhD students and academics. Researchers using qualitative methods in government, policy, consultancy, social research organisations and charities will also find this training useful.

Please note: this is an interactive live course with presentation, group activities, group discussions, and opportunities to ask questions. You should be prepared to participate and have use of camera and mic on Zoom.

Bookings:

Bookings for this course should be made via Eventbrite tickets. However if your organisation requests that payment be made via invoice please contact me directly to enquire. Payment must be received in full in advance of the course date in order to secure a place.