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Insider ethnography: tinker, tailor, researcher or spy?
1Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, UK.
Nurse Researcher
|August 19, 2007
Summary
This study explores the challenges of insider ethnography, where a senior manager conducted research within her own organization. It highlights the unique ethical and practical issues encountered during this research approach.
Area of Science:
- Qualitative Research Methods
- Organizational Behavior
- Healthcare Management
Background:
- Insider ethnography presents unique methodological challenges.
- Senior managers conducting research within their own organizations face complex dynamics.
- Understanding these dynamics is crucial for ethical and effective research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To reflect on the experiences of an insider ethnographer.
- To identify and discuss the issues arising from conducting research within one's own employing organization.
- To provide insights for future insider research in healthcare settings.
Main Methods:
- The study employed an insider ethnography approach.
- A senior manager conducted research with nurse consultants in her employing organization.
- Reflexive journaling and critical analysis were used to document experiences.
Main Results:
- The research identified significant challenges related to researcher role conflict and maintaining objectivity.
- Issues of access, data interpretation, and potential bias were prominent.
- The dual role of manager and researcher created unique ethical considerations.
Conclusions:
- Insider ethnography requires careful navigation of dual roles and potential conflicts of interest.
- Strategies for managing insider-researcher dynamics are essential for research integrity.
- The findings offer valuable lessons for researchers undertaking similar studies in organizational settings.
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