Field Research Methods (272-0-20)

Instructors

Yolanda J Majors

Meeting Info

Annenberg Hall 345: Tues, Thurs 12:30PM - 1:50PM

Overview of class

This qualitative methods course introduces ethnographic research via observation, interviewing, and qualitative data analysis. You'll learn the basics of observing, making field notes, and making sense of your observations and notes. We'll talk about becoming aware of your biases (i.e., positionality, beliefs, and meaning systems). The course objectives include understanding how our lenses shape how we see (or don't see) things, how that affects our interpretations, and how we ultimately build meaning and knowledge systems.

Learning Objectives

-know what ethnography is, including autoethnography
-know the various understandings of "culture"
-learn how to write ethnographic field notes, including analytic memos
-be able to write and conduct a qualitative interview
-learn what "grounded theory" coding is and be able to utilize this approach to the analysis of qualitative data
-work effectively with a group to create an ethnographic study
-create a final project summarizing your findings

Class Materials (Required)

All readings will be available on Canvas. Videos will also be linked on Canvas.

Class Notes

This course will culminate in a group presentation based on collective observations and interviews. You'll be doing a lot of work in small groups.