Participant Observation: Immersing in Refugee Communities for Research

What is the research methodology used by the author in studying the PRPC?

The author of the study on the PRPC lived in a billet with refugees, ate the same food, experienced the same heat and typhoons. What is this research methodology known as?

Answer:

The research methodology of living with a community while observing and participating in their cultural activities is called participant observation.

The research methodology being referred to in the question is known as participant observation, often used in social sciences and anthropology. This method involves the researcher immersing themselves within the community or culture they are studying, observing and participating in the everyday life of the community. By living with the refugees under the same conditions, the author was able to collect information via direct observation and experiences. This approach enables researchers to gain an in-depth understanding and insight into the practices, behaviors, and interactions within the group, providing a nuanced understanding of the community's dynamics, customs, and cultural understanding.

An example of this methodology is the study conducted by cultural anthropologist Georgina Ramsay on Congolese refugees in Kampala. Ramsay adopted a similar approach to understand how these refugees protect themselves against perceived 'poisoning'. She experienced firsthand their cultural adaptation and survival techniques under challenging circumstances.

Participant observation is a valuable research methodology that allows researchers to gain a deep understanding of social phenomena by directly engaging with the community being studied. It provides rich insights into the lived experiences, beliefs, and practices of the group, leading to more nuanced and holistic research outcomes.