What type of research does ethnography primarily involve?

Ethnography is fundamentally a qualitative research method focused on studying cultural phenomena, typically through immersive observation and participation within a community or social group. This approach allows researchers to gain deep insights into the behaviors, beliefs, and social interactions of a specific population from an insider's perspective. By spending extended periods in the field, ethnographers can collect rich, descriptive data that captures the complexity of social life, which is essential for understanding the nuances of a culture.

In contrast to other research methods, such as quantitative analysis, meta-analysis, or longitudinal studies, ethnography does not prioritize numerical data or existing studies; instead, it emphasizes direct, hands-on experience in the community being studied. This focus on immersion and cultural context is what distinguishes ethnography as a method and makes the identification of cultural phenomena its primary objective.