230131 UE M4 Qualitative Methods: Interview and Participant Observation (2024W)

In this course, two central methodological approaches of qualitative or interpretative social research - participatory (ethnographic) observation and the open interview in its different variants - will be introduced and practiced. The methods are empirically tested and practiced on the basis of specific questions. Qualitative social research is methodologically based on understanding sociology, which focuses on the meaning of social action from the perspective of the actors in the various areas of everyday life and interprets this meaning on a scientific level. Based on the theoretical background of qualitative empirical social research, an understanding of the methodological implications should be developed, as methods cannot be thought of independently of scientific questions and basic theoretical assumptions.

With the increasing digitalization of the social world, variants of these methods should also be addressed in the context of digital media (e.g. netnography). Observation can also be supported by means of videographic methods. The entire research process is practiced, from the survey and evaluation to the presentation of results. In reflection, topics such as the role of the researcher in the research process and pragmatic decision-making problems in the research process or dealing with unforeseen difficulties will be discussed.