Key points to consider when using ethnographic methodology

Ethnographic research examines people's lives in their communities through a

cultural perspective (Hammersley and Atkinson, 2007; Fetterman, 2010). The field of
ethnography has its origins in anthropological research that looked at the social and
cultural characteristics of remote cultures abroad. In order to create a narrative
account of a particular culture against a theoretical backdrop, ethnographic methods
involve observing people in their cultural context.

The following are the key points which one should cover or consider when n the
examination of the topic by using ethnographic methodology.

By disguising themselves and "becoming part of the group," the researcher may
have access to in-depth knowledge and understandings that are otherwise
inaccessible. One of the advantages of the ethnographic method is its authenticity.
The researcher has direct access to a group's culture and customs when using
ethnographic methodologies. It is an effective strategy for learning first-hand about
people's relationships and behavior in a certain setting. However ethnography takes
time and calls for a skilled researcher. Building trust with informants takes time in
order to enable open and honest discussion. Studies that are completed quickly
suffer in this way.

However, it does bring up moral concerns regarding the concealment and even
deceit that this methodology of necessity entails, as well as the need to fit in with
social norms, particularly if they call for the researcher to act in an illegal, illicit, or
unethical manner. People have not provided informed permission if they are not
aware that they are the subject of sociological research. In rare circumstances, it
could be possible to obtain general consent or consent after the study has begun.
Ethnographical methods must respect the psychological health and privacy of the
people being studied

It is conceivable that some group members' behavior would change as a result if the
researcher completely disclosed the goal of the study (the "open ethnographer,"
participating in overt participant observation). However, it may not be possible to
know for sure; one can only assume, therefore undermining the study's credibility.
One disadvantage of overt participant observation is the Hawthorne which effect
occurs when study participants alter their behavior as a result of realizing they are
being watched or given preferential treatment. The Hawthorne effect can be defined
as an increase in output in reaction to being observed.

It is up to each individual researcher to decide whether or not the end justifies the
means in a given situation. Reliability is the major flaw in ethnographic research.
Because an occurrence in a natural context cannot be replicated, ethnographic
research is challenging to repeat. Another significant issue has to do with legitimacy.
In natural settings, ethnographic research is frequently conducted to document
changing processes. Even the most exact replication of research methodology may
not yield the same results since unique events cannot be accurately recreated.