Articles

Understanding Ethnographic Research and Cross-Cultural Differences

Individuals from different countries who have various backgrounds might encounter barriers when communicating with each other. Ethnographic research is suitable for analyzing interpersonal conflicts from the perspectives of history, customs, language, and culture. The researcher will illustrate her experiences when the researcher was in China and the United States separately in order to set an example for people to understand the cultural differences between the two countries. Also, the researcher will discuss what ethnographic research is and how to utilize this research method in discussing the cultural differences. Ethnographic research will help people understand a social phenomenon by analyzing people’s ideologies and preferences (Willis, 2007). The researcher will explain why mutual understanding and trust are important when communicating. By sharing knowledge and building mutual understanding, people will have a better opportunity for promoting long-term friendships.