Ethnography: Principles in Practice

This leading introduction to ethnography has been thoroughly updated and rewritten, emphasizing that ethnography is a reflexive process that requires recognition of the social research's role in the world it studies and reflection on how researchers shape data and analysis. It covers key features of ethnographic work, ethical issues, and illustrative material from classic and recent studies. It is an indispensable resource for undergraduate and postgraduate students and researchers in the social sciences and humanities.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 25 April 2019
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This renowned introduction to ethnography, now in its fourth edition, has undergone a thorough update and substantial rewriting. The comprehensive volume provides a systematic exploration of ethnographic principles and practices, encompassing a dedicated chapter on "Ethnography in the Digital World." The authors posit that ethnography should be approached as a reflexive process, recognizing that social research is inherently intertwined with the world it seeks to understand. This necessitates a critical reflection on the role of researchers in shaping both data and analysis.

Beginning in Chapter 1, the authors establish a framework for reflexivity, situated against the backdrop of competing research philosophies. They delve into the core aspects of ethnographic work, encompassing:

• The selection and sampling of cases, considering factors such as representativeness and feasibility.
• Addressing the challenges of gaining access to diverse populations and environments.
• Navigating field relations and observation, fostering trust and understanding.
• Conducting in-depth interviews to gather qualitative data.
• Utilizing various documents, such as field notes and photographs, to document and organize empirical evidence.
• Analyzing and interpreting data through qualitative and quantitative methods.
• Crafting research reports that effectively communicate findings.

Furthermore, the book delves into the ethical considerations inherent in ethnographic research. Throughout the discussion, a wealth of illustrative material from classic and contemporary studies is presented, contextualized within a global framework.

The updated edition of this widely adopted textbook serves as an invaluable resource for undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as researchers employing ethnographic methods across the social sciences and humanities. Its comprehensive coverage, coupled with its accessible writing style, makes it an essential guide for anyone embarking on ethnographic research endeavors.

Weight: 518g
Dimension: 177 x 246 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138504462
Edition number: 4 New edition