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Ethnography in Qualitative Research: A Critical Review of Methods and Applications

Author

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  • Raju Yonjan

    (M. Phil Scholar (ELE), School of Education, Kathmandu University, Nepal; Gaumati Secondary School, Sindhuli, Nepal)

  • Ramu Tandan

    (M. Phil Scholar (ELE), School of Education, Kathmandu University, Nepal)

  • Bisanu Prasad Subedi

    (M. Phil Scholar, Mid-western University, Nepal)

Abstract

This article provides a critical review of ethnography, as a qualitative research method, with a focus on its utility, flexibility, and methodological challenges. Ethnography allows one to study people and cultures within their natural contexts, documenting the meanings, behaviors, and social discussions that make up human experience. Using insights from fifteen key pieces of research, this article points to the power of ethnography in providing rich, contextualized, and holistic views of social life. The article also mentions reliability and validity as issues deriving from its naturalistic and interpretive quality. Despite reliability and validity issues that may arise, ethnography persists as an important and under-utilized method of studying complex social phenomena and demonstrates a capacity to provide richer insight into culture, identity, and lived experience with observation, participation, and interpretation of social actors.

Suggested Citation

  • Raju Yonjan & Ramu Tandan & Bisanu Prasad Subedi, 2026. "Ethnography in Qualitative Research: A Critical Review of Methods and Applications," International Journal of Arts and Humanities, Bluemark Publishers, vol. 4(1), pages 27-39, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:cxi:ijah00:v:4:y:2026:i:1:id:700
    DOI: 10.61424/ijah.v4i1.700
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