Paper short abstract:

A current anthropological study required the development of a valid methodology for a phenomenographically-oriented, multi-sited, distance, comparative ethnography. Using a case study example and support from existing literature, this paper presents ontological and epistemological perspectives.

Paper long abstract:

21st century telecommunications phenomena have spawned new developments in social science research methodologies. Researchers now utilise online tools to investigate virtual and real-world social phenomena. New methodologies designed to include these are a valuable tool for contemporary anthropologists. A current research study at the University of Tasmania required the development of tailored methodology to investigate real-world social activities across multiple sites and associated on-line communities. The case study employed a blend of traditional and contemporary approaches assembled from a variety of established methodologies. The considerations influencing the development of the methodology are presented in this paper with the intention of informing future researchers of potential valid methodological design.

Ontological and epistemological concerns are addressed to establish a framework for discussion on 21st century ethnographic and phenomenographic methodologies as applied to the case study. Multi-sited, distance, and comparative ethnographies are presented followed by relevant data collection and analysis tools. Categorisation of research informs the reader where each study fits in the current body of research and from what perspectives the knowledge may be viewed, providing a framework for the type of knowledge being examined and how we know it is relevant. When innovative strategies are developed the value of the outcomes, and practicalities of future employment of theoretical platforms, must be both challenged and addressed. This paper presents defence for contemporary anthropological methodologies with support from existing literature.