Lecture II : Observation INF 5220 Autumn 2010

Training to become a skilled observer (Patton 2002, 260-261) Learning to pay attention, see what there is to see, and hear what there is to hear Practice in writing descriptively Acquiring descipline in recording field work notes Knowing how to separate detail from trivia to achive the former without being overwhelmed by the latter Using rigorous methods to validate observations – be thourough! Reporting the strengths and limitations of one’s own perspective, which requires both self-knowledge and self-disclosure

Types of observations Participant Onlooker Open (consent) Tell everyone in a board that you as a member of the group will study how different activities come into play using various kinds of social media Telling everyone in an environmental movement that you are present, why you are there and how you will use the material Covert (ethical issues) Taking part in a religious group not telling why you are there Studying children from a bench in the park

Some aspects to consider when observing Time – how long do I need to be present (data becomes repetitive or as long as the activity takes)? What happens and what does not (what is expected from a situation – make notes in advance)? Who are your key informants (all parts of the organisation, leaders, newcomers)? From notes to videorecordings or combinations Theoretical perspectives – talk, artefacts, gestures, institutional aspects, disciplinary issues – combinations of theories?