"Participant observation is one type of data collection method by practitioner-scholars typically used in qualitative research and ethnography."
A research method in which the researcher participates in the activities of the people being studied and observes their behavior.
Anthropological research methods: This involves the various ways in which anthropologists conduct research, including participant observation, ethnography, and interviewing. It is important to understand these methods since participant observation is one of the primary techniques used in cultural anthropology.
Participant observation: This refers to the process of observing and participating in social interactions and cultural practices in order to better understand a particular community or society. It involves being physically present in a community and engaging in the daily activities of its members.
Ethnography: This is the process of recording and analyzing cultural practices, beliefs, and social interactions within a particular community or society for an extended period of time. It is often used in conjunction with participant observation as a research method.
Culture: This refers to the shared beliefs, practices, and values that define a particular group or society. Understanding the culture of the community being observed is essential for effective participant observation.
Cultural relativism: This refers to the understanding that different cultures have different norms and values, and that these should be respected and not judged by external standards. It is a key principle in cultural anthropology and important to keep in mind during participant observation.
Field notes: These are detailed written records of observations made during participant observation. They include descriptions of social interactions, behaviors, and beliefs, as well as the researcher's reflections and interpretations.
Reflexivity: This refers to the process of reflecting on one's own positionality and biases during participant observation. It is important to be aware of how one's own cultural background and assumptions can influence the research process.
Ethics: This involves ensuring that participant observation research is conducted in an ethical and respectful manner, including obtaining informed consent from participants, protecting their privacy and confidentiality, and minimizing any potential harm.
Gender and power dynamics: These refer to the ways in which gender and power relations influence social interactions and cultural practices. It is important to be aware of these dynamics during participant observation and to reflect on their implications for the research.
Data analysis: This involves the process of analyzing and interpreting the data collected during participant observation. It includes coding field notes, identifying patterns and themes, and drawing conclusions about the community being observed.
Complete observation: The anthropologist observes all aspects of a culture’s behavior without interfering.
Participant-as-Observer: The anthropologist participates in the culture while observing it.
Observer-as-Participant: The anthropologist primarily observes the culture but also engages in some participation as necessary.
Selective observation: The anthropologist focuses on specific aspects of a culture’s behavior rather than observing everything.
Focused observation: The anthropologist observes specific behaviors in great detail for an extended period of time.
Structured observation: The anthropologist uses pre-determined categories to observe and record specific behaviors.
Unstructured observation: The anthropologist observes without pre-determined categories or goals, allowing for more open-ended exploration.
Time-budget analysis: The anthropologist records the amount of time individuals spend engaging in specific behaviors to better understand their priorities and values.
Audio/Visual observation: The anthropologist records behaviors through audio or visual means, allowing for later analysis.
Longitudinal observation: The anthropologist observes a culture over an extended period of time, allowing for a greater understanding of cultural change and continuity.
"This type of methodology is employed in many disciplines, particularly anthropology, sociology, communication studies, human geography, and social psychology."
"The concept 'participant observation' was first coined in 1924 by Eduard C. Lindeman, an American pioneer in adult education."
"Eduard C. Lindeman was influenced by John Dewey and Danish educator-philosopher N.F.S.Grundtvig."
"Social Discovery: An Approach to the Study of Functional Groups."
"The method originated earlier and was applied in the field research linked to European and American voyages of scientific exploration."
"Joseph Marie, baron de Gérando already affirming that: 'The first way to get to know the Indians is to become like one of them; and it is by learning their language that we will become their fellow citizens.'"
"The method would be popularized by Bronisław Malinowski and his students in Britain."
"The students of Franz Boas in the United States" popularized the method.
"The students of the Chicago school of sociology" contributed to the popularity of participant observation in urban research.