Qualitative Methods Questions
Critical ethnography is a qualitative research approach that combines the principles of critical theory and ethnography. It aims to understand and critique power relations, social inequalities, and dominant ideologies within a particular cultural or social context. Unlike traditional ethnography, which focuses on describing and interpreting cultural practices, critical ethnography seeks to uncover and challenge the underlying power dynamics and social injustices that shape these practices.
In critical ethnography, researchers engage in a reflexive and collaborative process, working closely with the participants to understand their experiences and perspectives. They critically analyze the social, political, and economic structures that influence the lives of the participants, aiming to give voice to marginalized groups and challenge dominant narratives.
This approach often involves a combination of methods, such as participant observation, interviews, and document analysis, to gather rich and nuanced data. Researchers pay attention to the power dynamics within the research process itself, acknowledging their own positionality and biases, and actively involving participants in the interpretation and analysis of the data.
Overall, critical ethnography in qualitative research goes beyond description and interpretation, aiming to contribute to social change by exposing and challenging oppressive structures and promoting social justice.