Understanding and expanding the use of virtual ethnography in sociological methodology

• In Event: 1429 - Informal Discussion Roundtables
  In Refereed Roundtable 100min: Table 9: Qualitative Methods

Abstract

With the prevalent use of technology in everyday life and in social relations, virtual ethnography has remained an underutilized methodology in sociology. While there are similar methodological considerations between virtual ethnography and physical ethnography, this roundtable will discuss the ongoing challenges unique to virtual ethnography and how to address these challenges. Additionally, we will discuss how to utilize virtual ethnography studies in the classroom including how to incorporate this methodology in core courses and best practices in teaching virtual ethnography as a methodology. To accomplish this, we will share exemplary virtual ethnography studies of this methodology.

Author

• Wynn Strange, Portland State University