Images of Imaging: Notes on Doing Longitudinal Field Work

The social and human problems of gaining entry into a research site, constructing a research role, and managing relationships with informants are illustrated.

Abstract

This paper discusses the problems and processes involved in conducting longitudinal ethnographic research. The author's field study of technological change in radiology provides the context for the discussion. Specific attention is paid to how researchers can design a qualitative study and then collect data in a systematic and explicit manner. Consequently, the paper seeks to dispel the notion that participant observation and quantitative data analysis are inimical. Finally, the social and human problems of gaining entry into a research site, constructing a research role, and managing relationships with informants are illustrated.