Overview

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This introductory course provides a foundational understanding of ethnography as a research method. Students will explore key principles, various approaches, and ethical considerations, while learning how to design ethnographic studies. By the end, they will be equipped to assess when ethnography is appropriate, navigate potential challenges, and begin their own ethnographic research with confidence.

Syllabus

The What and Why of Ethnography
- This module introduces ethnography as a qualitative research method for exploring human behavior, experiences, and cultures in depth. You will examine contemporary approaches to ethnographic research, explore different types of ethnography, and consider the strengths and limitations of this method for generating rich, contextual insights into social life.
Is Ethnography Right for my Research?
- This module explores how ethnography is applied in research and helps you determine whether it is the right approach for your project. You will examine the key stages of the ethnographic research process, consider the types of research questions ethnography can address, and learn how to evaluate the suitability of this methodology for gaining in-depth insights into people, cultures, and social experiences.
Approaches to Ethnography
- This module explores the flexibility of ethnography as a research method and the different ways it can be applied in practice. You will examine a range of ethnographic approaches and observational techniques, consider their strengths and limitations, and learn how to select the most suitable approach for your research aims, setting, and participants.
Getting the Planning Right
- This module introduces the planning stages of ethnographic research and the practical decisions needed before entering the field. You will learn how to select appropriate research sites and populations, develop strategies for gaining access to participants and settings, and consider the role and responsibilities of the researcher in conducting effective ethnographic research.
Planning Ethical Ethnographic Research
- This module explores the ethical and practical responsibilities involved in conducting ethnographic research. You will examine potential risks to researchers and participants, learn how to identify and mitigate bias and harm, and understand the role of ethics review processes in ensuring research is conducted safely, responsibly, and with respect for those involved.
Ethnography for Beginners Glossary and References
- In addition to the glossary you’ll find woven throughout the course, you can find the full glossary collated in one place here.