Introduction
In our daily activities as humans, we consciously and unconsciously observe what people do around us, how they do it, and sometimes ask why they do what they do. In so doing we gain a better understanding of their ways of life. Anthropologist and sociologist too mention but a few, professions employ the daily observations we engage in as humans in a methodology called participant observation. Dewalt and Dewalt (2002:1) define participant observation as “a method in which a researcher takes part in the daily activities, events, rituals and interactions, of a group of people as one of the means of learning the explicit and tacit aspects of their life routine and culture.” Participant observation can be carried out in roles that reveal or hide the identity of the researcher (i.e. covert or overt roles) in four different capacities namely complete participant, participant as observer, observer as participant, complete observer Bryman (2004). These capacities all have their merits and demerits. However, for the purpose of this essay participant observation would be discussed holistically devoid of the various roles. This is due to limitation on words. This essay discusses the merits and weaknesses of participant observation, arguing that the weaknesses are inherent in the merits and as such the merits outweigh the weaknesses and concludes with ethical discussions on participant observation.
Merits and weakenesses.
Participant observation has been lauded as an excellent technique for dealing with various complex socio-cultural phenomena suggests Jorgensen (1989) and Robson (2011).Similarly Tedlock (1991) also posits that the expectations on participant observation as a research methodology are high as it is expected t...
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The method of providing evidence was reading literature, which was 15 years of age or less. The documents he used for his research were case studies, trails, longitudinal studies, and recapitulation. From studying these documents he separated the data he collected into two different classes. These classes were broken up into institutional settings and community contexts.
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In the book “Tally’s Corner: A Study of Negro Streetcorner Men” written by Elliot Liewbow, the author, Liewbow uses a certain methodology to study their subjects. This methodology is called participant observation. Elliot Liewbows purpose for this method was to investigate the theory of proletariat societal stereotypes about the African American race in Washington D.C in the 60’s. He observed the group of men for nearly 18 months straight.
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In this essay I am going to argue that participant observation was the most effective way to learn the Ecuadorian card game, Cuarenta. Participant observation is defined as “[learning] not just through asking questions or observing but by getting involved directly, trying things out oneself” (Barker 2008:9). I followed these guidelines in my study of Cuarenta. First, I had the game explained to me by my key informants Esteban and Ale. Second, I watched Esteban and Ale play a round of the game. Lastly, my friend Ashley and I joined them. A key informant is a primary source of information, they are knowledgeable on the subject on which they are informing, and they are interviewed extensively (Tremblay 1957:688). My key informants, Esteban Ortiz and Ale Nieto are international students from Ecuador, at St. Thomas University. They are qualified to be my key informants on Cuarenta because they are knowledgeable not only on the card game itself, but the culture it came from.
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The world of anthropology is tightly woven into research of humans and their cultures. One of the most important principles of the Code of Ethics of the American Anthropological Association (AAA) is found in Part III, Section A, Number 1: “Anthropological researchers have primary ethical obligations to the people, species, and materials they study and to the people with whom they work.” (American Anthropological Association, 2009) This main principle helps to guide social scientists through a maze of ethical dilemmas such as if and how the research itself may harm or otherwise impact those with whom they are studying. While the purpose of the research may be to gain knowledge of the plight of a certain individual or group of individuals, by the extension of the sharing of this knowledge the person or persons being studied may draw unwanted attention. By utilizing the Code of Ethics, the framework has been established so that the researcher is guided “to consult actively with...
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One of the major advantages of participant observation is the ability of the anthropologist to gain access to events, locations and intimate situations where outside observers would not be allowed. DeMunk and Sobo (1998) describe some benefits of the observation method over alternative methods of anthropological data collection including the fact that it allows admission to the “backstage culture” (DeMunk and Sobo 1998 p.43), it allows for intimately detailed description, and provides the anthropologist with opportunities to be a part of all events. DeWalt and DeWalt (2002 p.92) also suggest that it increases the quality of the data that has been collected and the interpretation of the anthropologist, as well as analysis of that data and assisting in the development of new research questions and hypotheses. However, DeMunk and Sobo (1998) also address some disadvantages of using the particip...
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Qualitative research was designed as a way to be directly connected with the subjects researched. Participant researchers may choose to merely observe and collect data or to be an active participant. Covert participation has the advantage of reducing the “reactive effects” of the social setting or group (Bachman & Schutt, 2012). Most researchers who use the participation method of research will often strike a balance between participation and observation. Through participation, an observer may gain the trust of the research subjects which can provide more fruitful results. Some research may however be unethical or a violation of law. A good researcher should use prudence beforehand when crafting their research design.