Olhares circunstanciados: Etnografia da linguagem e pesquisa em linguística aplicada no brasil

Abstract

This article discusses ethnography as a theoretical and methodologicalchoice for research in Applied Linguistics in Brazil. Based on narrativedescription and transcripts of an interactional episode observed in a publicschool classroom, we propose that the analysis of language practice data inconjunction with ethnographic fieldwork strengthens proper understandingof situated actions. We argue that privileging the participants' perspectivesof what goes on at any given time and precise interactional settings, whenassociated with additional observation of related moments and settings, helps avoid hasty conclusions and establishes connections with less easilyobservable social structures (e.g., a political-pedagogical project). Afterdescribing the research project in which the episode was observed, weargue why laborious ethnographic work is worthwhile if it is rigorousand methodologically reflective. Finally, we highlight the value of thiscomprehensive outlook for researching in spheres of professional activitythat are crucially important for civic life.