Paper
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Writing fieldnotes in an ethnographic study of peers - collaborative experiences from the field
Sarah L. Condell, RGN, RM, RNT, BNS, MA, Health Research Board, Ireland, 2, Dublin, Ireland
| Learning Objective #1: Describe the processes involved in the development of ethnographic fieldnotes |
| Learning Objective #2: Outline how fieldnote development differs depending on the ethnographic role adopted by the researcher |
Abstract:
Michael Agar (1996) in his seminal work on ethnography states that data is “actively constructed over time in a collaborative way” (p4). This paper describes such a process in relation to a doctoral study examining the building of research capacity. It will show how the level and type of such collaboration differs depending on the ethnographic role adopted by the researcher. A brief outline of structure of the study will given, including the rationale for collecting data from two fields and the ethnographic roles adopted in each. The paper will demonstrate how fieldnotes develop from initial thoughts and jottings to the finished product used for analysis. It will indicate where and how collaboration may occur throughout this process. Issues of constraint on fieldnote development will also be reflected upon.
Agar M (1996) The Professional Stranger (2nd Ed) San Diego: Academic Press