Ethnography in schools - A research perspective between anthropology and pedagogy Focus on methodology

Abstract

This paper is concerned with ethnography at school and the methodology required conducting an observational inquiry in an educational context. It explores the possibility of interconnecting pedagogy and anthropology, by using the methodology of one to study problems typical of the other. During last century, the works of J. Ogbu, M. Mead, and Y. Shavit, helped the development of disciplines such as sociology of education and anthropology
of education. This work will analyse the methodological aspect affecting the method of ethnography, hence enhancing reflexive remarks coming from a brief account of Italian anthropology of education. Furthermore, it will propose the idea of schooling by starting from anthropology. In addition, some limitations about such method are explained. The focus will be on the following issues: researchers’ reflexive attitude, the dialogical character
of ethnographic accounts, and the linguistic perspective. In its conclusion, this paper will claim that the usage of such techniques will help improving the role of teachers, which are fundamental for our society.