Introduction
“The Field: Life and Work in Cultural Anthropology” by George Gmelch and Sharon Bohn Gmelch offers a comprehensive insight into the world of cultural anthropology and the fieldwork involved. This essay will explore the preparation undertaken by the Gmelchs and their students before embarking on their fieldwork, the methods used to gather data, the importance of establishing rapport with subjects, and finally, the field sites that would pose the most difficulty and those that would be easier to adjust to.
Preparation for Fieldwork
Before arriving in the field, the Gmelchs and their students engaged in thorough preparation to ensure a successful research experience. They emphasized the importance of learning the local language, which allowed them to establish meaningful connections with their subjects. For example, in his fieldwork in Ireland, George Gmelch spent six weeks studying Gaelic, which enabled him to communicate effectively with the locals (Gmelch & Gmelch, 2017). Similarly, students in their courses were encouraged to learn the language of their chosen field site to facilitate interaction and data collection.
Additionally, the Gmelchs and their students familiarized themselves with the existing literature on their chosen field site. This involved studying previous research conducted in the area and understanding the cultural context before conducting their own investigations. For instance, Sharon Bohn Gmelch researched Irish step dancing before her fieldwork in Ireland, which allowed her to have a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of this practice (Gmelch & Gmelch, 2017).
Data Gathering Methods
To gather data, the Gmelchs and their students employed various methods. One common approach was participant observation, which involved immersing themselves in the lives of their subjects and observing their behaviors and interactions. George Gmelch’s fieldwork in Ireland involved living with a local family and participating in everyday activities, such as farming and attending social gatherings (Gmelch & Gmelch, 2017). This allowed him to gain firsthand insights into the culture and practices of the community.
In addition to participant observation, interviews were conducted to gather specific information from individuals. The Gmelchs and their students used open-ended questions to encourage subjects to share their thoughts and experiences freely. For example, Sharon Bohn Gmelch conducted interviews with Irish step dancers to understand their motivations, experiences, and perspectives (Gmelch & Gmelch, 2017).
Establishing Rapport
Establishing rapport with subjects is crucial for successful fieldwork. The Gmelchs employed various strategies to build trust and collaboration with their subjects. One way they established rapport was through reciprocity – by offering something in return for the information they sought. For example, George Gmelch provided his Irish hosts with photographs of his family as a token of appreciation for their hospitality (Gmelch & Gmelch, 2017). This gesture helped foster a sense of trust and goodwill between him and his hosts.
Another method used by the Gmelchs was active listening and empathy. They showed genuine interest in their subjects’ stories and experiences, allowing them to form strong connections. This approach enabled them to gain valuable insights into the culture and perspectives of their subjects.
Most Challenging Field Site
Among the field sites discussed in the book, I believe that adjusting to the field site in Northern Ireland would be the most challenging. The deep-rooted historical and political tensions present in this region would create a complex environment for an anthropologist. Negotiating these sensitive dynamics while conducting research would require a high level of cultural sensitivity and understanding.
Easiest Field Site
Conversely, I believe that adjusting to the field site in Barbados would be relatively easier. The warm and welcoming nature of the people, combined with a relaxed island atmosphere, would make it easier for an anthropologist to establish rapport with the locals. Additionally, English being the primary language in Barbados would eliminate any language barriers that may arise during data collection.
Conclusion
“The Field: Life and Work in Cultural Anthropology” provides valuable insights into the preparation required before embarking on fieldwork, data gathering methods used by anthropologists, the importance of establishing rapport with subjects, and the challenges faced at different field sites. Through their experiences, George Gmelch and Sharon Bohn Gmelch highlight the significance of thorough preparation, cultural sensitivity, and building trust when conducting successful fieldwork in cultural anthropology.
