Ethnographic Methods

by Karen O'Reilly

Ethnography isn't a prescribed set of methods - it's a methodology that acknowledges the complexity of human experience and the need to research it by close and sustained observation of human behaviour. In this comprehensive, yet concise introduction, Karen O'Reilly introduces the reader to the technical, practical and philosophical issues that arise when employing traditional and innovative research methods in relation to human agents. She invites the reader to engage in reflexive and creative research that draws critically and creatively from the full range of qualitative methods.

Using case studies of students' work to illustrate the dilemmas and resolutions that an ethnographic researcher may encounter, this textbook guides the reader from the initial design and planning stages through to the analysis and writing-up. It explores the historical and philosophical foundations of ethnographic research and goes on to cover a range of relevant topics such as participant observation, qualitative interviews, (focus) group interviews and visual data collection and analysis.

Designed primarily for undergraduates, this book incorporates complex methodological debates which will also engage more experienced researchers, perhaps coming to ethnography for the first time.

Genres: Anthropology, Nonfiction, Academic

264 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2004

Reviews

[Tom Muddiman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very easy to read, comprehensive (if slightly dated) guide to engaging with and structuring ethnographic research. I think this could do perhaps with a slightly more comprehensive overview of the historical development of specifically ethnographic methods (as opposed to other qualitative surveying methods) however as a nuts-and-bolts guide with examples from the authors' and of other researchers's own work, this is excellent and, always a mark of a good book, gives good pointers to potential further readings.

[Linde · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was mandatory reading for a methodology class I had in January. I knew most of the things described already from different classes, and many of the topics had come by in lectures already, but I'm still glad I had to buy Ethnographic Methods. The language is clear, the layout is simple, it is an overal very effective book with practical tips and theory. I also loved the 'further reading' sections of the book, because it allowed for more information while remaining clear and to-the-point. Definitely a book I will be keeping with me.