Reflections from Cross-Gender Fieldwork Experiences in Open Markets in Ghana
Authors
Nyantakyi-Frimpong, Hanson
Hussey, Lucia K
Pinkrah, Ama
Arku, Godwin
Publication Date
2021-01Journal Title
International Journal of Qualitative Methods
ISSN
1609-4069
Publisher
SAGE Publications
Volume
20
Language
en
Type
Article
This Version
VoR
Metadata
Show full item recordCitation
Sowatey, E. A., Nyantakyi-Frimpong, H., Hussey, L. K., Annan-Aggrey, E., Pinkrah, A., & Arku, G. (2021). Reflections from Cross-Gender Fieldwork Experiences in Open Markets in Ghana. International Journal of Qualitative Methods, 20 https://doi.org/10.1177/16094069211053102
Abstract
<jats:p>Fieldwork can be an enjoyable academic adventure producing lifelong experiences of excitement and a sense of academic accomplishment. However, it can be an equally frustrating undertaking, especially when carried out in ‘unfamiliar’ environments. This paper adds to the growing number of studies about fieldworkers’ experiences by reflecting on the complexities involved in the process and proffering ways to respond to them. We share our perspectives as three adult African males conducting research in a predominantly female space in two informal markets in Accra, Ghana. To do this, we engage with five issues related to fieldwork: preparing to enter the field; negotiating access; handling interviews; dealing with ethical dilemmas; and exiting the field. We found that being male is not a barrier to conducting research in a predominantly female space. The success of our fieldwork was a product of our ability to adapt, be creative, appreciate our inadequacies, learn quickly and also take some practical and common-sense steps. Our hope is that the insights shared in this paper will serve as a compass for prospective fieldworkers.</jats:p>
Keywords
Regular Article, fieldwork, research site, negotiating access, ethics, informal markets, sub-Sahara Africa
Identifiers
10.1177_16094069211053102
External DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/16094069211053102
This record's URL: https://www.repository.cam.ac.uk/handle/1810/330110
Rights
Embargo: ends 2021-10-29
Licence:
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
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