Ethnographic Research Methods (Aldoel 3)

This module will introduce the basic principles and tools used in conducting professional ethnographic research. It is designed as a practicum for intensive training in the design, conduct, management, and writing of ethnographic research. Participants will learn how to do a small-scale ethnographic research project, and in the process master various ethnographic research skills— participation, observation, interviewing, writing field notes, organising/analysing qualitative data, and writing.

It will begin by providing a general background to ethnography, with particular focus on its contemporary manifestations, uses and application, especially in fields such as education, business, development, health, government and technology. Here, participants will learn the advantages and disadvantages of using ethnography as a research approach; and the basic steps, contextual considerations and theoretical implications involved in the design of a good ethnographic study, including the formulation of a research question and theme.

The second part will focus on the techniques and strategies used in conducting ethnographic research, such as participant observation. In the third section, participants will acquire skills in recording, storing, organising and analysing ethnographic data. In the fourth part, participants will obtain training in ethnographic writing, and report writing from ethnographic data.

By the end of this course participants will leave with a project proposal relating to their advanced ethnographic research plans. In relation to this, all participants are required to submit a one page project proposal summary, addressing (1) General Theme or problem statement, (2) Research Question(s), (3) Methodological Approach, (4) Expected Output, and (5) Relevance.