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Handbook of Research Methods in Health Social Sciences pp 443–456Cite as

Ethnographic Method

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Abstract

This chapter explores the use of a range of ethnographic methods within qualitative methodology. Alongside introducing the building blocks of ethnographic methods, with a focus on reflexivity, participant-observation, fieldwork, and visual and sensory methods, it will draw upon my experiences in studying young Chinese Australians’ lived experiences in health and physical activity. My experiences in the field provide insights into the potentials and perils of using some of these ethnographic methods and issues navigating research ethics. I emphasize the advantages of an approach that allows for innovative and unique interactions between the researcher and research participants within the participants’ real-life environments. The use of innovative ethnographic methods encourages thinking and practice beyond traditional modes of enquiry and beyond understanding the participants’ lived experiences through texts and numbers alone.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Science and Health and Institute for Culture and Society, University of Western Sydney, Penrith, NSW, Australia

    Bonnie Pang

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  1. Bonnie Pang
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Correspondence to Bonnie Pang .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. School of Science and Health, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia

    Pranee Liamputtong

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Pang, B. (2019). Ethnographic Method. In: Liamputtong, P. (eds) Handbook of Research Methods in Health Social Sciences. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-10-5251-4_81

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