Participant observation

Abstract

As a method, observation has its roots in a particular branch of anthropology - that of ethnology - and, at its core, involves the immersion of the researcher in a social setting. In turn, observation involves the ‘systematic recording’ of cultural and human behaviour, inclusive of activities, rituals, and relationships. This makes observation well-suited to produce detailed context-specific accounts of coaching practice that move beyond overly reductionist descriptions. The use of observation as a method has evolved over time to become compatible with a range of theoretical, ontological, and epistemological positions. Although traditionally positioned as separate from the conditions and practices under study, observation is neither neutral nor culturally-free and depends on the participation and involvement of the researcher. This chapter addresses the possibilities of observation as a method for exploring sports coaching contexts. Our aim is to provide readers with some points of entry for employing participant observation, including some paradigmatic, theoretical, and reflexive considerations.