Research Methodologies and Ethical Challenges in Digital Migration Studies: Caring For (Big) Data?

This book explores the methodological and ethical challenges of working with digital technologies and large-scale datasets in ethnographic studies of digital migration practices and trajectories. It emphasizes the need for new modes of caring for data to protect the privacy, autonomy, and security of research participants while also establishing analytically sustainable environments for the data sets. The authors argue that researchers must reflect on their own positioning as part of the challenge they seek to address.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 262 pages
\n Publication date: 24 November 2021
\n Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG
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This Open Access book delves into the intricate methodological and ethical challenges posed by the integration of digital technologies and large-scale datasets in ethnographic studies of digital migration practices and trajectories. Digital technologies not only revolutionize every stage of the migration process but also impact the actions of various actors, ranging from solidarity networks to border control agencies. Consequently, they introduce a novel set of ethical and methodological dilemmas for migration studies, encompassing data access, interpretation, privacy protection, and research ethics.

A particular concern arises when digital migration researchers access digital platforms utilized by migrants, who often face precarious and vulnerable conditions, lack official documentation, and risk rejection and deportation. Thus, the authors advocate for innovative approaches to caring for (big) data when exploring migrants' digital practices within the context of migration and borders. This entails not only ensuring the privacy, autonomy, and security of research participants but also establishing analytically robust environments for the respective data sets. By doing so, the book argues that it is crucial for researchers to critically reflect on their own positioning as part of the challenge they aim to address.

Digital technologies have transformed the landscape of migration studies, offering new avenues for accessing, sharing, and preserving relevant information. They have also reshaped the activities of various actors involved in the migration process, including solidarity networks and border control agencies. However, these technological advancements have brought forth a range of ethical and methodological dilemmas that require careful consideration.

One of the primary concerns is the access to and interpretation of data. With the vast amounts of data generated by digital technologies, researchers face the challenge of ensuring that they have access to accurate and reliable information. This requires careful negotiation with data owners and ethical considerations regarding data privacy and confidentiality. Moreover, researchers must be aware of the potential biases and limitations of digital data, as they may not capture the full range of experiences and perspectives of migrants.

Another ethical dilemma is related to privacy protection. As migrants often rely on digital platforms to communicate and navigate their migration journeys, they may be vulnerable to privacy breaches and surveillance. Researchers must ensure that they prioritize the privacy and security of research participants and take appropriate measures to protect their data. This includes anonymizing data and implementing robust security protocols to prevent unauthorized access or misuse.

Research ethics is another critical aspect of working with digital technologies and large-scale datasets in migration studies. Researchers must adhere to ethical guidelines and principles, such as obtaining informed consent, minimizing harm, and ensuring the transparency and accountability of their research. They must also consider the potential impact of their research on the lives of migrants and their communities and take steps to mitigate any negative consequences.

Furthermore, the use of digital technologies in migration studies raises questions about the role of researchers in the broader context of migration and borders. Researchers must be aware of their own positioning and the potential impact of their research on the lives of migrants and their communities. They must strive to be accountable and transparent in their research practices and engage in reflexive and ethical reflection throughout their work.

In conclusion, the integration of digital technologies and large-scale datasets in ethnographic studies of digital migration practices and trajectories presents both opportunities and challenges. While these technologies offer new avenues for understanding migration, they also introduce ethical and methodological dilemmas that require careful consideration. By prioritizing privacy protection, research ethics, and transparency, researchers can contribute to the advancement of migration studies while ensuring the well-being and rights of migrants.

\n Weight: 372g\n
Dimension: 150 x 210 x 26 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9783030812287\n
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022\n