Observación participante

Abstract

This work summarizes the review of the literature about one of the qualita tive research methods: the Participant Observation. The aspects related to its theoretical and epistemological foundations and the general characterization of its methodology are presented. Analytical induction, sensibility concepts, emer gent theory, existential theory and hermeneutic or interpretative theory are among the theories on which the participant observation is based.

Regarding to the procedure of the methodology of participant observation, the following aspects were analyzed: defining the problem; coming to the human scenario; participating in the scenario; developing relationships in the field; observing and collecting information; strategies for carrying out and taking notes; procedures for analyzing and theorizing; leaving the scenario and com municating the results. Finally, some educational implications of the partici pant observation from students, teacher, educational actions and socio-cultural surrounding's perspectives are presented.