Engagement and Qualitative Interviewing: An Ethnographic Study of the Use of Social Media and Mobile Phones Among Remote Indigenous Youth

Authors

Kishan A. Kariippanon, University of WollongongFollow
Kate Senior, University of WollongongFollow

RIS ID

116260

Publication Details

Kariippanon, K. & Senior, K. (2017). Engagement and Qualitative Interviewing: An Ethnographic Study of the Use of Social Media and Mobile Phones Among Remote Indigenous Youth. SAGE Research Methods Cases, 1-15.

Abstract

In 2012, Kishan Kariippanon began an ethnographic study on the use of social media and mobile phones by Indigenous youth practicing traditional culture in a remote community in Northern Australia. A prepaid mobile phone service is available in most Northern Territory remote Indigenous communities. This case study provides an account of the vital practical steps for engagement and conducting qualitative interviewing in an Indigenous community where traditional structure of kinship and communications is practiced. The case sheds light on the particular challenge of gaining trust and building an authentic relationship with individuals and the community as part of the engagement process and culturally appropriate interviewing technique.