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Entering the field in qualitative field research: a rite of passage into a complex practice world

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<mark>Journal publication date</mark>30/11/2017
<mark>Journal</mark>Information Systems Journal
Issue number6
Volume27
Number of pages23
Pages (from-to)795-817
Publication StatusPublished
Early online date22/09/16
<mark>Original language</mark>English

Abstract

The concept of ‘the field’ is significant in ethnographic research as well as qualitative research methods more generally. However, how a field researcher enters the field is usually taken for granted after gaining access to the field. We suggest that entrance is a distinct phase of fieldwork that differs from negotiating access. Entrance is not a trivial event; rather, it is a rite of passage into a complex practice world and marks a critical field moment. Drawing on our ethnography and insights from hermeneutics and anthropology, we show that a practical understanding of the field represents a fusion of horizons where a fieldworker is thrown. The concept of thrownness highlights the fact that the fieldworkers' own historicity and prejudices affect their entrance into the field; hence, entrance into the field orientates an ethnographer in the field and influences the entire period of fieldwork that follows. Our theorizing is intended as a contribution towards advancing the discussion of qualitative research methods.