Using Video Technology

Abstract

We have highlighted our intention to contribute to existing interpretive research methods in the area of childhood studies. Chapter 1 outlined the main features of our methodology and research methods, outlined the six phases of our research strategy and ended with a brief overview of our use of video as a methodological tool. Given its central place in our study, we now look more closely at the opportunities and challenges of our use of video technology to produce an observational record — a ‘filmic tracking of what takes place’ (Collier & Collier, 1986, p. 152). (Throughout this book we use ‘film’ interchangeably with ‘video’, mainly for stylistic variation as opposed to technical fidelity.)