Research Questions
Research questions in the ethnographic process are generally open ended with the intention to describe and interpret the field and space that is being studied (Hammersley & Atkinson, 2007). This is the central question that asks for an exploration in the study. It will often include sub questions that consider various aspects of the behaviour and context being studied. What is important is for the interviewer to build rapport in their questioning so as to get the most natural response from the subject. Many ethnographers use some levels of self disclosure to build rapport and create a natural space for conversation.
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The main difference between ethnographers and survey questioners is the distinction between pre-structured and reflexive interviewing (Hammersley & Atkinson, 2007). Ethnographers do not generally decide beforehand the exact questions they want to ask and do not usually ask subjects the same questions. This class is style of interviewing is often seen as inequitable in that it positions the interview within a binary logic with the research holding the power of dominance. Ethnographers adopt a more flexible approach so as to allow the discussion to take a normal course. They also do not utilise only one form of questioning. Through a single interview they may adopt non-directive questions or directive questions as the need arises during conversation (Murchison, 2009).
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It is important to note that much of the information the researcher finds from their subjects is 'naturally occurring' or unsolicited accounts. Not all talk takes place in a formal interview setting. People talk to one another and provide accounts naturally and through this the ethnographer is also able to participate and observe. Because of naturalism, some ethnographers see unsolicited accounts as of more value than solicited accounts (Copland, 2017). Many favour non directive interviewing where the interviewee is invited to talk at length in their own terms as opposed to directive questioning.
