Please choose a question
Ethnography is an anthropological approach that is specifically concerned with
observation of people in their natural environments.
It is a way of revealing ‘hidden’ truths and understanding cultures. And is usually
used to address a specific concern, or research a specific hypothesis.
It not only records behaviours but also analyses motivations and emotions.
In this way it is a useful tool to develop culturally understanding and also to help
develop ways of working that are suited to a group’s needs.
Gatekeepers and Key Informants
– Gatekeepers make access to information and group members easier (or harder).
– Key Informants give away or withhold ‘privileged’ key information.
Types of Ethnography
– Overt or covert methodologies
– Real life observations or third party materials