GSSR
Research Methodology and Methods of Social Inquiry
www.socialinquiry.wordpress.com
January 10, 2011
Field Methods
• broad approach to qualitative research
• method of gathering qualitative data
As a research approach:
- attempt to develop an understanding of human behavior
as it is defined by the subjects themselves and/or as it is
related to the situation in which the behavior occurs.
Observation yields the fundamental data
Essential:
- the researcher goes "into the field" to observe the
phenomenon in the natural social setting familiar to the
subject.
Observations are purposive and systematic
When to do it?
- the object of study is a rapidly changing/dynamic
situation;
(how people cope with aftermath of natural disaster)
- it is essential to preserve the interrelatedness of the
person and situation;
(study a prison as an institution)
- methodological problems, resources, or ethics
preclude other research strategies/approaches;
- when very little is known about the topic under
investigation.
Sampling in Field Research
Non-random selection of small number of settings and
subjects.
Enhance the informational value of evidence by maximizing
variation.
2 main variables to vary: time & space
Sampling Strategies:
- serial selection of sample units;
- sampling analytical dimensions relevant to the study.
Data Collection Methods
- firsthand observation = core to field research
Unstructured vs. structured observation
Less structured observation in the early phases of
research;
Highly structured: specify when & where observations will
take place; who will make the observations; what will be
observed.
Participant vs. Non-Participant Observation
Participant Observation
- participation is a matter of degree
- balancing the requirements of both participating and
observing;
Non-Participant Observation
- often used in combination with participant observation;
- the observer strives to be as unobtrusive as possible, to
not bias the observations.
- more detached perspective;
- more focused than participant observation.
Stages of Fieldwork
1. Selecting appropriate setting
2. Gaining access
3. Presenting oneself to those in the setting (possible
ethical problems)
4 & 5. Gathering & Analyzing information
- mental notes & field jottings to record detailed field notes
as soon after the observation as possible;
- in addition to observation, question participants and
consult records and personal documents;
- develop rich description of events that conveys the
experience of someone who “was there”.
- throughout the process of gathering information, develop
concepts & tentative hypotheses to make sense of the
data
Aids to identifying patterns and gaining insights:
- coding field notes,
- writing memos,
- asking questions & counting.
Important: have alternative explanations & perform various
validity checks (ex. corroborative evidence)
Field Interviewing
Supplements field observation by asking about:
- unobserved events,
- different perspectives on events,
- informants’ thoughts and feelings.
Informal interviews, in ordinary conversation;
Formal, in-depth interviews, with help of interview guide.
The order of questions & exact wording depends on the
background of informant and the general course of the
conversation.
Advantages (A) & Weaknesses (W) of the Field Research
Strategy
A:
- unobtrusive;
- allows for theory building;
- works well in combination with other research methods
W: - (very) time consuming;
- data are limited: observations in few settings, & highly
dependent on the observational skills of the
researcher(s)
Problems with vaildity and reliability