Reciprocity in rapid ethnography giving back by making the small things count

Abstract

This paper responds to the discussion of a possible lack of reciprocity in applying ethnography in HCI research, sometimes referred to as ‘rapid ethnography’. It contributes to the discussion by describing examples of how reciprocity can be achieved when applying rapid forms of ethnography. The paper suggests five approaches for HCI researchers to aim for reciprocity while doing research: (1) making participation fun for informants, (2) giving informants a voice, (3) allowing informants to exhibit their skills or strengths, (4) offering practical help and (5) providing self-knowledge. Each of these approaches comes with some risks, which are also explained in the paper. Reciprocity should be taken into consideration from the initial start of the research projects.