What Is Thick Description?

Summary

Lee Hall from TeachingAcademia.com discusses the concept of 'thick description' in qualitative research, originating from anthropology and associated with Clifford Geertz. Thick description goes beyond surface-level observations to include context, emotions, and social interactions, enriching field notes. Hall illustrates the difference between 'thin' and 'thick' descriptions using an example from an eighth-grade English class, emphasizing the importance of capturing detailed interactions and contextual information to understand observations fully.

Takeaways

• 📚 **Thick Description Origin**: The concept of thick description comes from anthropology and is attributed to Clifford Geertz.
• 🔍 **Beyond Surface Level**: Thick description goes beyond basic observations to include context, emotions, and social interactions.
• 🗒️ **Field Notes Enrichment**: It's important to have both thin and thick descriptions in field notes to fully understand observations.
• 🗣️ **Direct Quotes**: Including direct quotes can help in thick description, aligning with the research question.
• 🤔 **Contextual Importance**: Context is key in thick description, providing a deeper understanding of the situation observed.
• 👥 **Social Interactions**: Documenting how people react and interact in relation to the subject can provide valuable insights.
• 🕒 **Timing Matters**: The timing of observations and when to engage with participants for further information is crucial.
• 🧩 **Connecting the Dots**: Thick description helps connect the dots between surface-level facts and underlying meanings.
• 📈 **Research Question Alignment**: The level of description should be aligned with the research question to ensure relevance.
• 📋 **Biographical and Historical Context**: Including biographical and historical context can add depth to the description.

Q & A

What is the concept of 'thick description' discussed in the script?

Thick description is a concept from anthropology, attributed to Clifford Geertz, which involves moving beyond surface-level observations in field notes to include context, detail, emotions, and social interactions to better understand an observation.

Why is thick description important in field notes?

Thick description is important because it provides a richer, more detailed account of observations that can help researchers and the larger community understand the nuances of a situation beyond just the basic facts.

What is an example of a thin description according to the script?

An example of a thin description is noting that a student entered a classroom, walked to his desk, and put his head down, without any additional context or detail.

How does the script suggest enhancing a thin description to a thick one?

To enhance a thin description, the script suggests including the context of the situation, such as what was happening in the class at the time, the student's actions in relation to expectations, and how others reacted to the student's behavior.

What role does the research question play in deciding what to include in field notes?

The research question guides what to document in detail and what to note more briefly. It helps determine which observations are relevant and should be described thickly, and which can be noted more thinly.

Why might a researcher choose to document direct quotes in their field notes?

Direct quotes can be included in field notes to capture the exact words and sentiments expressed by participants, which can provide a deeper understanding of the context and emotions involved in the observation.

What are some elements that can be included in a thick description according to the script?

Elements that can be included in a thick description are biographical information about who is involved, historical context, the situational context, relational dynamics, and interactional details.

How does the script suggest using the context of a situation to understand an observation?

The script suggests using the context to understand an observation by noting the expectations and norms of the situation, such as classroom activities or assignments, and how the observed behavior aligns or contrasts with those expectations.

What is the significance of documenting how people react in relation to an observed student?

Documenting reactions helps to build a thicker description by showing the social dynamics and potential significance of the observed behavior, which can provide clues about the student's social standing or the meaning of the behavior within the group.

How can a researcher use their field notes to investigate further after an observation?

A researcher can use their field notes to identify questions or areas of interest that can be explored later through interviews or discussions with the participants, allowing for a deeper understanding of the observed interactions.

Why is it important to document both thin and thick descriptions in field notes?

Both thin and thick descriptions are important because thin descriptions provide the factual framework, while thick descriptions add depth and context, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the research subject.