Learning to Do Ethnography in Complex Systems

Abstract

This chapter gives an introduction to ethnography, describes how ethnographic data is collected and argues that ethnographic ideals of how participatory fieldwork is used in research are not a hindrance to the importation and use of the ethnographic label in risk and safety studies. The possible challenges to the import of ethnographic methods and methodology in safety science studies are reviewed. Further, a toolkit for ethnographic experimentation in complex sociotechnical systems is provided. The chapter suggests an approach of context-sensitive solutions, and argues that practical and normative challenges, as well as differences in quality criteria can be overcome. A study of the road-based heavy goods transport sector is used as an example of how the fundamentals of ethnographic methodology can be reconciled with safety research goals. This analysis is intended to provide inspiration and insights that are useful for risk and safety researchers applying ethnographic methods and methodology in their studies, as well as those less familiar with the principles and practices of ethnography.