1. Ethnographic Research
Philosophical
Ethnography
Cara Adams
Analyzing an Essay By
Michael Genzuk entitled:
“Synthesis of Ethnographic Research”
(Photo taken from USC Rossier School of Education Faculty Listing)

2. Definition of Terms Philosophy: Together: Ethnography:
“As a method, ethnography refers to fieldwork.
Literally means “portrait of a people”.
Is the art and science of describing a group or a culture.” (Genzuk,1).
Philosophy:
Oxford English Dictionary defines philosophy as:
“The use of reason and argument in seeking truth and knowledge of reality, esp. of the causes and nature of things and the principles of governing existence.”
Together:
Philosophical Ethnography is the study of ethnographic definition while addressing philosophical truths and theoretical underpinnings.

3. Methodological Principles
Naturalism: “Social Scientists have to be able to capture natural occurring human behavior.
Understanding: There is no such thing as humans having fixed responses 100% of the time.
Discovery: Theoretical ideas that frame descriptions and explanations over what is being observed are developed over the course of the research” (Genzuk, 4-5)

4. Guidelines for Fieldwork and Interviewing
“Be descriptive in taking field notes. 
Get a variety of information from a variety of perspectives. 
Use many different kinds of methods (observations, interviews, program documentation, recordings, and photographs).” (Genzuk, 6-7).
Interviewing:
“Your aim is to achieve situational responses and sensitivity to get the best data possible.” (Genzuk, 7-9).

5. Ethics and Validity “Ethics
Analyzing, interpreting, and reporting findings.
Qualitative description.
Reporting findings.
Balance between description and analysis.” (Genzuk, 10-13).
There is a need to be concerned about a study‘s truthfulness and validity, while looking or the truth and knowledge in selected groups or cultures. It can be done. Not easily, but it can be done.