Purpose: Compile first-hand, qualitative research on a food-related issue that you might have explored in your group to write a problem/solution paper on that issue OR to collect and write an Oral History project that seeks to preserve food culture/history/identities.
Qualitative research aims to get a better understanding through first-hand experience, truthful reporting, and quotations of actual conversations. It aims to understand how the participants derive meaning from their surroundings, and how their meaning influences their behavior.
Qualitative research uses observation as the data collection method. Observation is the selection and recording of behaviors of people in their environment. Observation is useful for generating in-depth descriptions of organizations or events, for obtaining information that is otherwise inaccessible, and for conducting research when other methods are inadequate.
Observation is used extensively in studies by psychologists, anthropologists, sociologists, and program evaluators. Direct observation reduces distortion between the observer and what is observed that can be produced by an instrument (e.g., questionnaire). It occurs in a natural setting, not a laboratory or controlled experiment.
Suggested approaches (will vary by purpose/rhetorical situation, and you may use as many as you like):
Interview subject matter experts using social distancing and masks, by e-mail, video call, or voice call. Follow the standard protocol for interview requests and format provided in this module. You may wish to type a complete transcript of the interview, or just take thorough notes. An e-mail interview, of course, provides a transcript for you.
Interview those impacted by or directly involved with the issue.
Observe in a setting related to your issue. Prepare for your observation by compiling a list of at least five questions, which will be included in your field notes.
Audience: Your audience for this project is your instructor; these notes are, ultimately, for you and your work on the final project.
Formatting Requirements: Although the formatting would typically vary based on your approach, we will use the following for consistency:
Standard MLA formatting (typed, double spaced, default margins, Times New Roman font size 12 or equivalent)
Include name, date, and assignment name in the upper left-hand corner.
You may add formatting as is helpful for you in organizing your notes–sections, headings, etc.
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