I found these chapter's in Driskill and Brenton to be helpful as I continue my cultural analysis. I have already observed two regular CGSA meetings as well as a meeting of the executive board. In addition, I have helped to man the table for National Coming Out Week that was up all last week on the library bridge.
Looking at the four major observer roles, it is clear to me that I am a participant-observer. I feel that I am participating fully in the observation; when I attend meetings, I do not simply take notes in the back, but offer my input. I also volunteer my time outside of the meetings. At this point, it wouldn't be possible for me just to observe, because I was an active participant in the organization last year and am known by several other members. I have also let the members know of my role as participant observer. Because some members of the organization may wish to remain anonymous, I feel ethically obligated to tell them that I am observing them, although I also made it clear that my study will not be published and I will not use names. I also emphasized my status as a participant; I don't want the members of the organization to feel that I am only there to watch and take notes. I also enjoy attending meetings and socializing with members.
I am aware that I will not be an objective observer, but I don't think that it is ever possible to be completely objective. We all have our own biases which we bring to research. I think my status as a participant helps me in gaining the trust of members, so they will feel comfortable being honest when I interview them.
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I know that I will probably be a participant-observer for the cultural analysis project, but I need to decide for my thesis study. I understand that ethics play a huge role in determining how I conduct the research, so I want to make sure that I pick the role best suited for the study.
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