Digital ethnography is a research method that uses digital tools, like mapping, to gather and analyse data. Mapping is a visual way to organise data, revealing patterns and connections that might otherwise be missed. It is particularly useful in digital ethnography, where the volume of data can be overwhelming.
One mapping tool, the ‘tag map,’ is used to visualise the frequency and connections of words or phrases within a data set. It helps to identify recurring themes and relationships. Another tool, ‘geographic maps,’ plots data points on a physical map, useful in studies involving location-based data.
Mapping is not just for data visualisation but also for data discovery. It can uncover hidden patterns, relationships, and themes in the data. Mapping also helps to organise and make sense of large data sets, making them more manageable and comprehensible.
Importantly, mapping is a dynamic process, not a static one. As new data is added, the map changes and evolves, reflecting the ongoing nature of the research. It is not just a tool for presenting findings, but a research method in its own right.
The use of digital tools in ethnography is a growing field, with mapping playing a crucial role. It offers a new way to understand and interpret data, providing insights that might otherwise be missed.
Go to source article: http://ethnographymatters.net/blog/2012/12/05/on-digital-ethnography-mapping-as-a-mode-of-data-discovery-part-2-of-4/