Participant Observation: A Methodology for Human Studies

by Danny L. Jorgensen

Book Overview

While providing an introduction to basic principles and strategies, this volume also explores the philosophy and methodology underlying the actual practice of participant observation. Taking a thoroughly practical approach to the methods of participant observation, Jorgensen illustrates these methods with both classic and current research studies. By using the materials in this book, readers can begin conducting participant observation research...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0803928777
• ISBN13: 9780803928770
• Release Date: February 1989
• Publisher: Sage Publications, Inc
• Length: 136 Pages
• Weight: 0.45 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 5.6" x 8.7"

Customer Reviews

A Guide To Get Started

Jorgensen is clear in his purpose for writing this book. It is to give people an introduction to the methodology of partcipant observation. He explains how the process works and gives examples to support his explanation. In the first chapter he identifies situations when the method would be appropriate: 1)little known about the phenomenon 2) different viewers between insiders and outsiders 3) outsiders having an obscured view 4) phenomenon hidden from public view. In arguing for the validity of what is discovered by researchers using the method, he writes it "aims to provide practical and theoretical truths about human experience" (p. 16). In my own graduate work I found this book to be helpful and recommend it to others interested in the field