Qualitative research methods ;

This book critically surveys the many ways microcomputers and programmes can be used to further qualitative social research. The author focuses on the liabilities and benefits of using this technology for research purposes and provides a generic, conceptual approach rather than a how-to guide to specific computers and programmes.

There are a range of roles that can be played by ethnographers in field research. The choice of role will affect the type of information available to the researcher and the kind of ethnography written. The authors discuss the problems and advantages at each level of involvement and give examples of modern ethnographic studies.

'Speaking of Ethnography' challenges the assumption that conventional scientific procedures are appropriate for the study of human affairs. Agar's work is informed by a hermeneutic and phenomenological tradition, in which he questions the researcher's own taken-for-granted procedures.