Participant Observation Research Articles

Water in the West: Analyzing the disconnect between farmers' and policymakers’ perceptions of Colorado River Basin shortages in Arizona

The Colorado River Basin is facing a record-breaking megadrought that is depleting water resources and threatening farmers' livelihoods. This article investigates Arizona's water crisis to convey how farmers' worries, perceptions, and experiences about water align and depart from policymakers'. We conducted an ethnography among farmers and policymakers, involving participant observation and interviews, and used iterative qualitative coding to interpret themes. Farmers expressed deeply emotional experiences with water, remarking on the idea that water is central to life in Arizona. In response to constituent concerns, policymakers were willing to go to great lengths to improve the water crisis, but their viewpoints often echoed an “us versus them” and “all is well” mentality that could hinder progress. While farmers tended to prioritize preserving agriculture, policymakers tended to emphasize the importance of investing in development. Ultimately, this study reveals that there remain disconnects between farmers' and policymakers' viewpoints, experiences, and proposed policies.

Never eat foods that are not in season: The commodification and authentication of gastronomic identity in tourism

Gastronomic identity is an emerging concept with considerable explanatory power in understanding cultural and social dynamics. This study investigates the meaning of gastronomic identity and the cultural and social processes involved in its touristic commodification. The study was conducted in Suzhou, China, using a multi-method qualitative approach comprising participant observation, secondary document analysis, and semi-structured interviews. Analysis reveals that the essence of Suzhou’s gastronomic identity lies in seasonality, periodic changes in local food supply and demand. The commodification of this seasonal feature has transformed into a cultural allure for visitors. Stakeholders strategically leverage seasonal selections and culinary presentations to authenticate the regional gastronomic identity. However, these efforts are undermined by unethical food business practices—disregarding seasonality and engaging in premature food production—that threaten seasonal food culture’s authenticity. This study enhances our understanding of the place-based meaning of gastronomic identity and its commodification and authentication in tourism.

Participatory Censorship With Illusory Empowerment: Algorithmic Folklore and Interpretive Labor beyond Fandom

This article explores the cultural complexities of participatory censorship among young Chinese netizens, particularly within and beyond fan communities, through a digital ethnographic lens. By examining the interplay between social media practices and state governance, the study introduces the concepts of algorithmic folklore and interpretive labor to elucidate how fans engage in censorship as both a routine task and a form of ideological negotiation. Through immersive participant observations and in-depth interviews with 25 informants involved in fan conflicts, the findings highlight that while fans perceive their participation in reporting as a form of empowerment, this engagement paradoxically reinforces state control and self-censorship. The study argues that the dynamics of fan conflicts are intricately linked to broader political contexts, where fans become both agents and subjects of censorship. Ultimately, this research underscores the cultural complexities of participatory censorship, revealing the ways it can obscure deeper systemic inequalities and exploitation within the framework of cultural governance in China.

What matters for sustainable psychosocial interventions and who decides? Critical ethnography of a lay counselling program in Nepal

Lay counselling, or the delivery of talk-based therapeutic support by people without a clinical degree, is gaining popularity as a way of addressing global shortages of mental health professionals. In Nepal, lay counselors have made significant contributions to mental health and psychosocial care over the last two decades, particularly in the aftermath of major emergencies. However, research on the longer-term integration and sustainability of lay counselling interventions remains limited. This ethnographic study explored the meaning and importance of sustainability to different stakeholders in a lay counselling program implemented following Nepal’s 2015 earthquake. We conducted participant observation in the everyday lives of five counsellors as well as four focus group discussions and 51 semi-structured interviews with counsellors and other key stakeholders. Our analysis revealed significant discrepancies in perceptions of sustainability; while organizations involved in implementing the program described it as a sustainability success due to continued government financing, counsellors emphasized their own and the government’s failure to sustain high-quality service delivery in practice. Program-level barriers included inadequate budget and remuneration, lack of clinical supervision, and poor integration within existing systems. We also identified wider sociopolitical influences on sustainability, including the social positioning of counsellors, low understanding and acceptability of counselling, and a rapidly changing political landscape. These findings reveal the need for a critical approach to sustainability in global mental health, warning against superficial engagement that prioritizes continuity of government financing over quality of care and workers’ rights. Advocating for an ecological orientation within sustainability research, we also discuss the importance of looking beyond program design factors to consider how local and national sociopolitical dynamics influence frontline service provision.

Internet of things as a tool for ensuring material security of Military Units and Institutions

Abstract: Material security of military units and institutions is one of the determinants of the ability to carry out combat tasks. It will be possible to provide it, among other Things, by obtaining information on the existing material needs and the possibility of meeting them. This information can be obtained through the use of technologically advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things. The aim of the article is to publish the results of research indicating whether and to what extent the Internet of Things will determine the logistical security of military units and institutions. In order to achieve this goal, a general research problem has been identified in the form of a question: "How will the Internet of Things affect the acquisition of information necessary to make decisions regarding the satisfaction of the material needs of military units and institutions"? The solution to the general research problem was achieved by refining it with four specific research problems. Theoretical methods (analysis, synthesis) supplemented by an empirical method – participant observation – were used to solve them. An important item in the research process were the results of surveys conducted with persons performing tasks related to ensuring material security in military units and institutions. The results obtained in the course of the research clearly indicate the importance of information for decision-making related to meeting the material needs of military units and institutions. On the other hand, the ability to provide material resources will depend not only on the resources at hand, but mainly on the time of obtaining information on the occurrence of needs in a specific place and time. This requirement can be met through the use of modern technologies such as the Internet of Things. In addition to the undoubted benefits, the results of the study also pointed to the possibility of threats during the use of the Internet of Things. Therefore, it is necessary to balance the benefits and threats and make a decision on the possibility of implementing the Internet of Things for solutions supporting the implementation of material security tasks for military units and institutions.

Political and Intercultural Communication in Determining Presidential Candidates in the Indonesian Elections 2024

This study explores the dynamics of political communication in Indonesia, focusing on the 2024 presidential elections. As the country prepares for the presidential election in February 2024, since the general election is a form of post-reformation democratic process implementation that began in 1998, the process of forming political coalitions has become a significant aspect of the political landscape. Utilizing a phenomenological approach, the research examines the interplay between three distinct political cultures—parochial, subject, and participant—and their influence on voter engagement and candidate selection. Through in-depth interviews and participatory observation, the study reveals how political parties can tailor their communication strategies to resonate with diverse voter segments, thereby enhancing electoral participation and fostering a more inclusive democratic process. The findings highlight significant implications for political actors and scholars alike. By recognizing the unique characteristics and needs of each political culture, parties can develop effective coalition-building strategies that bridge cultural divides and mobilize support across Indonesia's heterogeneous electorate. This research not only fills existing gaps in the literature regarding the role of intercultural communication in Indonesian politics but also provides practical recommendations for political parties aiming to improve their engagement with voters. Ultimately, the study underscores the critical importance of adaptive communication strategies in promoting a more informed, engaged, and representative democratic system in Indonesia. Keywords: Elections, intercultural communication, political communication, political parties, presidential candidate.

RELIGIOUS TOLERANCE IN BANDA ACEH AND KEDIRI: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN DIGITAL SPACE

This research explores religious tolerance in Banda Aceh and Kediri within the context of digital space, focusing on the genealogy, contestation, and development directions of religious tolerance. The aim is to understand the social and cultural dynamics shaping patterns of religious tolerance in these regions and how digital spaces influence interfaith interactions. The methodology employed is a qualitative approach with case study methods, including in-depth interviews, social media content analysis, and participatory observation. The genealogy reveals fundamental differences between Banda Aceh, which exhibits a tolerance pattern influenced by Sharia law and strict norms, and Kediri, which is more inclusive due to its multicultural interactions. In digital spaces, religious contestation reflects tensions between conservative and progressive groups; Banda Aceh tends to uphold traditional values, while Kediri is more open to interfaith dialogue. The findings indicate that digital spaces have significant potential for fostering religious tolerance, though they are also vulnerable to hate speech and polarization. The future of religious tolerance in both regions will heavily depend on how communities and governments manage digital interactions, as well as educational efforts and policies that promote dialogue and interfaith understanding.

Narrative Impact in Church Homilies: Stories, Sayings, and Experiences

In the modern era, homilies do not only convey religious doctrine but also address contemporary challenges in religious life. This study aims to analyse the impact of using illustrations—stories, wise sayings, and personal experiences—in homilies on the understanding and reception of God’s Word by the congregation. Descriptive qualitative research was conducted at St. Thomas the Apostle Onan Rihit Station, utilizing in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and document analysis to collect data. Findings indicate that the use of illustrations in homilies not only deepens the understanding of the Gospel teachings but also enhances the congregation's engagement with the community and the application of these teachings in daily life. Homilies are effective in enhancing resonance and attention from the congregation, demanding more empathetic and creative approaches in delivery. The results of this study underscore the importance of adaptation and innovation in homiletic practices to respond to contemporary religious life dynamics

The Role of Religion in Policies of Legal Village-Owned Enterprises to Improve the Economic Rights of Village Communities

In the context of village development in Indonesia, BUM Desa is an important instrument for enhancing the economic welfare of village communities. However, many villages have not fully utilized the potential of BUM Desa due to the lack of integration between religious values and economic policies. Therefore, this study seeks to explore how the application of religious principles can influence BUM Desa policies and contribute to improving the economic rights of village communities. Data collection techniques included in-depth interviews with BUM Desa administrators, village officials, and local religious figures in several villages that have implemented religious-based policies in BUM Desa management and participatory observation, while data analysis was carried out through content analysis and thematic analysis methods to identify key themes in the data. The importance of understanding the relationship between religion and economic policies at the village level, especially in the context of BUM Desa, which have the potential to be the driving force of the local economy. This study involve how religious principles can be integrated into the legal framework for managing BUM Desa to ensure that the economic rights of village communities are fulfilled fairly and sustainably. This study shows that the integration of religious values into BUM Desa policies has significant potential to improve the economic rights of village communities. By prioritizing the principles of justice, shared welfare, and social responsibility rooted in religious teachings, BUM Desa can be more effective in achieving its economic and social goals. This study provides important insights for village policymakers in formulating inclusive and sustainable strategies to advance the village economy.

TUMBUHAN OBAT TRADISIONAL SEBAGAI INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE MASYARAKAT SUNDA: KAJIAN ETNOPEDAGOGIK

This study discusses the use of traditional medicinal plants from an ethnopedagogical perspective, focusing on a case study in the Sundanese community. The research aims to understand the traditional healing practices involving the use of medicinal plants among the Sundanese people and how the ethnopedagogical approach can be used to uncover local knowledge and strengthen these cultural practices. The research methodology employed is a qualitative approach with data collection techniques through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation study. The research sample was purposively selected, involving community leaders or traditional healing experts with extensive knowledge of medicinal plants and traditional healing practices in the Sundanese community. The results show that the use of traditional medicinal plants remains an integral part of the Sundanese healthcare system. These plants are used to treat various diseases and health disorders, serving as symbols of local wisdom and cultural identity. The ethnopedagogical approach facilitates the sustainable transfer of knowledge from generation to generation and raises awareness of the importance of preserving cultural heritage in the context of traditional medicine.

South African TVET Students’ Perceptions of Their Online Learning Experiences and Challenges: A Pilot Study

Learning in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) has been largely conducted through conventional methods. However, today, where information and communication technology plays a major role in people’s daily lives, learning now relies on how students respond to literate teaching and learning technologies. The unavailability of online learning technologies in the TVET sector continues to underplay its value in breaking long-standing learning barriers such as class sizes and timetabling. The challenge is its adoption in TVET, which is still in its infancy compared to universities. Therefore, online learning is gaining momentum as a pedagogical tool in the TVET sector. The paper aimed to discuss TVET students’ experiences during online learning. The study focused on how online learning impacts students’ learning experiences in the TVET sector. A qualitative approach was used, and data were gathered from 25 engineering students using Google Forms. Participant observation was also employed to confirm the findings. Engineering distance learning students were purposively and conveniently selected for the study. A conceptual framework was adopted from Aparicio et al.’s e-learning theory. Data were analysed thematically based on emerging themes. Findings showed that some students failed to attend online classes due to a shortage of smartphones/laptops, data, lack of communication from tutors and poor connectivity. Results revealed that students endorsed online learning for augmenting face-to-face contact sessions and flexibility to engage anytime. The study results indicated the existence of challenges, with notable progress. Addressing the challenges and acquiring a data-free learning management system could enhance online teaching and learning.

Metacognitive Awareness in Second Language Learning: Displaced Primary School Students’ Experiences of Learning German Upon Transition to the Target Language Environment

Drawing on international pedagogical discourse on the inclusion of ethnically diverse refugee groups in the educational systems of OECD countries as well as our previous research on the Ukrainian refugee perspectives on primary school in Switzerland, the author examines experiences of second language acquisition by displaced Ukrainian children in Swiss primary schools. The two-year research period allowed for the exploration of dynamics of German language acquisition by displaced children in conditions of full immersion in the target language environment and identification of the factors influencing their second language (German) learning and performance. The involvement of a Ukrainian researcher in the research project ensured accessibility of the target group and effective researcher-respondent communication in the course of longitudinal study carried out within the framework of a qualitative methodology with data collection through narrative inquiry and participant observations as research tools. The study identifies the effects of the two groups of factors: learner-internal (motivation, metacognitive skills, prior knowledge, and learning strategies) and learner-external ones (second language learning context, type of second language instruction available upon displacement, etc.). Metacognitive skills proved to be instrumental in second language learning in the context of the learners’ unexpected transition to a new educational setting and full immersion in the target language environment. Effects of metacognitive skills on second language learning of the studied group of displaced children vary considerably depending on the student’s age, prior knowledge and language learning experiences, and second language instruction available upon the displacement. The multidisciplinary character of the second language acquisition research undertaken by the author allows for diverse practical applications of its results in second language pedagogy, psychology of education, as well as in refugee and primary education.

ANALYSIS OF LABOR PRODUCTIVITY OF BEAM AND FLOOR PLATE WORK WITH WORK SAMPLING METHOD

Productivity is a crucial parameter in achieving project objectives. This research aims to obtain the value of labor productivity on the beam structure and floor plate in home construction using the work sampling method and analyze the comparison of the labor coefficient to the Analysis of Unit Price of Work (AHSP) in 2022. Experimental quantitative research describes this approach, utilizing information gathered through documentation, questionnaires, and participant observation. Data analysis in this research includes Data Uniformity Analysis, Data Sufficiency Analysis, Labor Utilization Rate (LUR), and Spearman Correlation. The findings revealed that the beam concreting job in home construction achieved a labor productivity rate (LUR) of 61.61% and 84.417 kg/person. In the floor plate concreting work, labor productivity reached 98.787 kg/person with a LUR value of 54.10%. Meanwhile, in formwork work, labor productivity reached 3.577 m/person with a LUR value of 53.37%, and in casting work, labor productivity reached 1.287 m/hour with a LUR value of 53.37%. Correlation analysis shows a positive relationship between Labor Utilization Rate and labor coefficient in concreting and formwork works. This indicates that the more efficient the labor, the higher the productivity in carrying out these activities, and the smaller the coefficient value obtained

Pendampingan Pastoral dengan Pendekatan Behavioral untuk Mengatasi Kenakalan Anak Disabilitas Daksa di Desa Tinada Kabupaten Pakpak

This research aims to find out what factors cause delinquency in children with physical disabilities and pastoral care using a behavioral approach that is relevant to dealing with delinquency in children with physical disabilities. The research was carried out using a qualitative approach involving pastoral case studies of a number of children with physical disabilities who experienced naughty behavior. Data was collected through participant observation, interviews with children, parents, and pastoral assistants, and documentation analysis. The research results show that pastoral care using a behavioral approach is able to make a positive contribution in managing the naughty behavior of children with disabilities. This research provides an in-depth understanding of the importance of pastoral care integrated with a behavioral approach in helping children with disabilities manage their naughty behavior. The practical implication of these findings is the development of more structured and evidence-based mentoring programs to support the holistic development of children with disabilities.

Exploring Religious Harmony Through Dalihan Na Tolu: Local Wisdom in Peacebuilding in Indonesia

This study aimed to investigate the dynamics of religious harmony and the strategies employed by Muslims and Christians in Mandailing Natal to build cohesive relationships through the indigenous cultural framework known as Dalihan Na Tolu. This study employed a qualitative descriptive method. Data collection was carried out through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and a literature review. Data analysis followed the Miles and Huberman model, which includes data presentation, data reduction, and conclusion drawing. The findings showed that the Muslim and Christian communities worked together to build peace and nurture religious harmony in Mandailing Natal. The cultural practice of Dalihan Na Tolu has long served as a foundation for accommodating the multicultural Mandailing society in fostering religious harmony and peace. The role of Dalihan Na Tolu could be seen in three aspects: socio-religious, economic, and customary practices. In these aspects, Muslims and Christians respected each other, fostered cooperation (gotong royong), and adopted a moderate and inclusive attitude towards diversity in their daily lives. Maintaining interfaith harmony through the cultural practice of Dalihan Na Tolu in Mandailing Natal is a crucial social modality that can contribute to peacebuilding and serve as a relevant strategy for preserving religious harmony in multicultural societies.

대학 내 이공계 학생의 액션러닝 참여 경험에 관한 현상학적 연구

The purpose of this study is to gather the experiences of engineering and science students participating in action learning within universities and to explore the factors that indicate the support they require from these experiences. To achieve this objective, the phenomenological research method proposed by Colaizzi(1978) was employed to identify the common experiences of the participants. A purposive sampling method was utilized to select six engineering and science students who engaged in action learning as research participants. Data were collected through unstructured in-depth interviews, participant observation, and a thorough literature review. The results revealed three categories, ten theme clusters, and twenty-five themes. Based on the characteristics of engineering and science students identified through their action learning experiences, their support needs encompass 'a deficiency in communication skills', 'challenges associated with selecting manufacturing companies', 'an increased necessity for persuasion and study due to the specialization of their majors', and 'a discrepancy in perceived task difficulty between instructors and students'. The role of facilitators in addressing these needs was also examined.

Optimizing Islamic Boarding School-Based Branding to Increase the Reputation of Islamic Higher Education

Objective: The main objectives of this research are to identify effective branding strategies, understand the impact of implementing Islamic boarding school-based branding on the university's reputation, and explore the role of Islamic boarding school values ​​in building a positive image of the institution. Method: The method used in this research is a qualitative approach with a case study design. Data was collected through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis. Results: The research results show that integrating Islamic boarding school values ​​in the curriculum, using social media for promotion, and collaborating with alums and Islamic boarding school figures are effective branding strategies in improving the university's reputation. Implementing these strategies has succeeded in increasing the attractiveness of Qomaruddin Gresik University in the eyes of prospective students and the wider community and strengthening alum loyalty. This research also found that Islamic boarding school-based branding can provide a strong and unique identity for the university, differentiating it from other Islamic universities. Novelty: This research emphasizes a holistic approach to optimizing Islamic boarding school-based branding, focusing not only on promotional aspects but also on integrating Islamic boarding school values ​​in all aspects of university operations.

Diversity of Eucharistic Ritual in COVID-2019 Context

Discussing diversity in the celebration of the Eucharistic ritual in COVID-2019 contexts, this is a comparative study of CITAM (Christ is the Answer Ministries) Valley Road assembly and St. Andrew’s PCEA (Presbyterian Church of East Africa) in Nairobi, Kenya. COVID-2019 had a great impact on the order of worship in Christian churches across the world. Churches were closed down at times. Whereas CITAM Valley Road administered the Eucharist in the virtual space, St Andrew’s PCEA did not adopt virtual Eucharist and had to wait until the lockdown prohibiting church meetings was lifted. This ethnographic study was carried out in Nairobi County at CITAM Valley Road and St. Andrew’s PCEA over a period of six months from late 2021 to early 2022. The methodological approach taken by the researchers was a blend of ethnography and grounded theology. Data was collected through virtual ethnography, participant observation, interviews, and focus group discussions. Findings from the study demonstrated an emerging trend of administering the Eucharist digitally as the Church in Kenya navigated both continuity and change. The findings also revealed the fact that religious change advances not suddenly, or as a single complete change, but in specific expressions that are local and distinct. The researchers posit that in the PCEA, believers could not imagine themselves administering virtual Eucharist in their homes; in CITAM also some Christians felt that administering the Eucharist in the virtual space was different from when it was administered in the physical space.

Fostering Excellence in Madrasah through Collaborative Supervision: A Management Perspective

This research is motivated by the lack of collaborative guidance among some members of the madrasah and the supervisor, which hinders the improvement of the quality of a madrasah institution. Therefore, it is necessary to establish collaboration or synergy among the head of the madrasah, the madrasah committee, several teachers, and the supervisor in advancing the quality of the madrasah. This research employs a qualitative approach with a multi-site study design. Data collection techniques include in-depth interviews, participant observation, and documentation. Data analysis uses single-case analysis and cross-case analysis. Data validity techniques involve credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability.The research findings indicate that: (1) the collaboration between supervisors and heads of madrasahs in formulating plans (planning) to improve the quality of the institution includes: a) formulating and developing the vision, mission, and goals of the madrasah; b) preparing the Mid-Term Work Plan (RKJM), the Madrasah Work and Budget Plan (RKAM), and the Annual Work Plan (RKT); c) conducting workshops and training for teachers and institutional staff; d) developing madrasah management systems and information technology and PBM (Self-Learning Platform); and e) preparing KTSP/Merdeka curriculum; (2) the collaboration between supervisors and heads of madrasahs in implementing the process (actuating) to improve the quality of the institution involves: a) organizing guidance, workshops, and training for madrasah teachers; b) providing support and guidance for all programs within the institution; c) developing a madrasah curriculum tailored to the institution's situation and conditions; d) producing works/products or learning journals, and developing an excellent KTSP madrasah curriculum.

Inclusive elementary school musicking practice for Japanese students with special needs: A narrative inquiry

Musicking is an old, yet new concept of music-making. The term, first proposed by anthropologist Christopher Small, intended to reinterpret music as not merely an act but also as an object. While musicking, anyone can participate in musical activities, which include singing, dancing, improvisation, and listening to musicking sessions. This study examines the use of musicking strategies in a Japanese elementary school with special needs students. The initial participants comprised 10 students from the first to sixth grades from a public elementary school in the northern part of Okayama Prefecture, Japan. Dr. A, the lead researcher of this study, is a violinist–teacher–researcher with professional orchestra experience in the United States. His career as a guest music teacher spans more than 20 years. In addition, two homeroom teachers and two university students supported the research project as participant observers. Based on Dr. A’s related practice in this area, this study explored musicking with a special emphasis on student inclusion. By applying a narrative inquiry and multivocal ethnography, this study investigated various events that were experienced in the musicking practice. Finally, the participants co-constructed a research-based narrative, focusing on creating a learning environment enabling all participants to build a musical community together. By synthesizing the participants’ thoughts, providing insights into musicking practice, exploring unexpected events, and utilizing the intuitive nature of music, the participants identified an approach for a comprehensive model for musicking.