Ethnographic Field Studies

What is ethnography? Ethnography may be defined as the study of individuals in their own environment while using the method of participant observations. Face-to-face interviewing may also fall into this field strategy. The primary goal for ethnographic field strategies is to appreciate an alternative means of life from the native perspective. One may equate the ethnographic process to that of people watching and or subjective soaking. This practice allows the researchers to be in the presence of whatever the researcher is studying, and while doing so this unique process allows for the researcher to be in the midst of it all.

Ethnography is an effective method used for research studies and involves a wide-range of fieldwork. The traditional ethnographic approach also known as general ethnography are: mirco and macro ethnography. Macroethnography exemplifies the entirety of the groups way of life whereas microethnography emphases on specific points for larger groups.

Ethnographic research most always involves human beings therefore, it is the responsibility of the researcher to remember to keep their participants from harm. Be respectful and cautious not to expose your participants in a manner that may cause harm. Ethical practices should always be practiced when conducting one’s research. Ethnographic research not only applies to human beings but to any living subjects. Protection of the life that is being studied should always be of great importance when entering the field of study. The ethnographer should also enter the field of study in an honest and openly manner. Any negative attitude observed by the participants may compromise the research. The ethnographer should not act as an advocate or an opponent towards the participants, however the goal for the ethnographer is to stay within a naturality state. Keeping within a naturality state allows the ethnographer to interpret what is going on around him/her rather than becoming the critics of the participants.

Interesting enough there are several dangers that may be associated with ethnographic research that researchers should be aware of. Ethnographers can potentially place themselves in settings that may be dangerous. Knowing the risk that the ethnographer may encounter will help prepare him/her for what he/she may encounter. These dangers would include: ambient and situational risks. Ambient dangers are dangers that the researcher exposes him/herself to. Situational dangers when a researcher places him/herself in a setting that maybe hostile. Safety must always be taken while in the field of research whether it is for the participants or the researcher. Safety of all involved should always be practiced. Therefore, take proper precautions by recognizing potential dangers, develop a plan to reduce the risk of being in a dangerous setting.