The Ethnographer’s Way guides researchers through the exciting process of turning an initial idea into an in-depth research project. Kristin Peterson and Valerie Olson introduce “multidimensioning,” a method for planning projects that invites scholars to examine their research interests from all angles. Researchers learn to integrate seemingly disparate groups, processes, sites, and things into a unified conceptual framework. The handbook’s ten modules walk readers step-by-step, from the initial lightbulb moment to constructing research descriptions, planning data gathering, writing grant and dissertation proposals, and preparing for fieldwork. Designed for ethnographers and those working across disciplines, these modules provide examples of multidimensional research projects with exercises readers can utilize to formulate their own projects. The authors incorporate group work into each module to break the isolation common in academic project design. In so doing, Peterson and Olson’s handbook provides essential support and guidance for researchers working at all levels and stages of a project.

Kristin Peterson is Associate Professor of Anthropology at the University of California, Irvine, and author of Speculative Markets: Drug Circuits and Derivative Life in Nigeria, also published by Duke University Press.

Valerie Olson is Associate Professor of Anthropology at the University of California, Irvine, and author of Into the Extreme: U.S. Environmental Systems and Politics beyond Earth.

List of Tables, Examples, Figures, and Formulas  xi
Prelude. Why and How to Use This Handbook  xvii
Acknowledgments  xxvii
Introduction. Multidimensional Concept Work  1
Interlude 1. Creating a Collective Concept Workspace  31
Module 1. Imagine the Research  43
Module 2. Focues on Literatures  69
Module 3. Map Concepts  95
Module 4. Create Multidimensional Concept Combos  111
Module 5. Describe Your Research  139
Module 6. Perceive Your Multidemensional Object  167
Interlude 2. The Inquiry Zones  191
Module 7. The Scoping Zone  195
Module 8. The Connecting Zone  223
Module 9. The Interacting Zone  247
Module 10. Mobilize Your Research Project Grid  273
Postlude. Resting, Reflecting, Preparing to Begin Anew  301
Appendix 1. Scheduling the Modules for Academic Quarters and Semesters  303
Appendix 2. Wilkinson’s Partially Filled Research Project Grid  305
Glossary  309
Notes  315
Bibliography  321
Index