Tensions in ethnographic observation: overt or covert?

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to reflect on the tensions between being covert and overt during ethnographic observations. The example of an ethnographic study of the culture in a diagnostic imaging department will be used to provide examples.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is a reflection on an ethnographic study, focussing on the participant observation.

Findings

This paper discusses the author’s reflections on the covert and overt nature of ethnographic observation.

Originality/value

The discussion is of value to all ethnographic researchers who experience this tension.

Citation

Strudwick, R. (2019), "Tensions in ethnographic observation: overt or covert?", Journal of Organizational Ethnography, Vol. 8 No. 2, pp. 185-195. https://doi.org/10.1108/JOE-11-2016-0022