International journal of qualitative studies in education
Paging:
Volume 7 (1994) nr. 1 pages 51-64
Year:
1994-01
Contents:
This paper looks at the problem a novice qualitative researcher faces when entering a classroom - what should the observer pay attention to? With observational notes from the author's research to illustrate the case, the paper argues that a researcher need not choose from among the many methods discussed in the literature for dealing with this problem. The alternative offered is that the environemt itself is the best guide for the researcher. An observer who is subjective without being self-focused will find that the environment, people, and events begin to register in significant and often unexpected ways. The observer is changed by the act of observing - a phenomenon illustrated by the author's characterization of researcher as videocamera, playgoer, evaluator, subjective inquirer, insider, and reflective interpreter. Through the course of these changing perspectives, the environment is also changed, becoming more interesting and compelling, and guiding the researcher's attention more clearly. The paper illustrates this by describing the author's increased appreciation for the role of rules in classroom life.
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