Ethnography - Research Day 3

What is ethnography?

Ethnography is the study of a group of people and their behaviors within their own, native environment.

Where does ethnographic research take place?

In a naturalistic setting, observing and/or interacting with people in their real-life environment.

What are the characteristics of ethnography?

• Long-term commitment to fieldwork

• Skills in gaining rapport

• Intense and ongoing observation

What are some challenges of ethnographic research?

• Cultural barriers (e.g., food, language)

• Staying safe in unsafe settings

• Managing stress and conflicts

• Time-consuming process

• Researcher’s personal bias

• Difficulty gaining acceptance in a cultural group

• Impact of researcher on the group being studied

How does ethnography relate to social work?

• Helps understand clients in their natural settings

• Encourages nonjudgmental, open-minded observation

• Uses interviews and observations

• Builds trust and maintains boundaries

• Takes an in-depth and holistic approach

What is the Person-in-Environment (PIE) perspective?

A framework in social work that highlights how an individual's behavior is shaped by their environment and experiences.

How does the PIE perspective help in ethnographic research?

• Helps understand how external factors influence behavior

• Looks at all systems and influences affecting a person

• Provides a holistic view of clients' challenges

What are some examples of the PIE perspective in action?

• A student struggling in school due to home life

• An older adult refusing to move into a nursing home

What are common methods of data collection in ethnography?

• Observations

• Interviews

• Document analysis

What is triangulation in ethnographic research?

Comparing and contrasting different sources of data to enhance the quality and reliability of findings.