Ubiquitous Connectivity: User-Generated Data and the Role of the Researcher

Hardey, M.

Abstract

Emergent technologies are pushing the boundaries of how both qualitative and quantitative researchers practice their craft, and it has become clear these changes are dramatically altering research design, from the questions researchers ask and the ways they collect data, to what they even consider data. Gathering a broad range of new developments in one place, The Handbook of Emergent Technologies in Social Research offers comprehensive, up-to-date thinking on technological innovations. In addition to addressing how to effectively apply new technologies-such as the internet, mobile technologies, geospatial technologies (GPS), and the incorporation of computer-assisted software programs (CAQDAS) to qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods approaches to research projects-many chapters provide in-depth examples of practices within both disciplinary and interdisciplinary environments and outside the academic world in multi-media laboratories and research institutes. Not only an authoritative view of cutting-edge technologies and their applications, the Handbook examines the costs and benefits of utilizing new technologies on the research process, the potential misuse of these techniques for methods practices, and the ethical and moral dimensions of emergent technologies, especially with regard to issues of surveillance and privacy. The Handbook of Emergent Technologies in Social Research is an essential resource for research methods courses in various fields, including the social sciences, education, communications, computer science, and health services, and an indispensable guide for social researchers looking to incorporate emerging technologies into their methods and practice.

Citation

Hardey, M. (2011). Ubiquitous Connectivity: User-Generated Data and the Role of the Researcher. In S. Hesse-Biber (Ed.), The handbook of emergent technologies in social research (111-132). Oxford University Press

• Publication Date: Feb 1, 2011
• Deposit Date: Mar 22, 2011
• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Pages: 111-132
• Book Title: The handbook of emergent technologies in social research.
• Chapter Number: 5
• ISBN: 9780195373592
• Public URL: https://durham-repository.worktribe.com/output/1683329
• Publisher URL: http://ukcatalogue.oup.com/product/9780195373592.do?
• Additional Information: Features Provides in-depth examples of how specific emergent technologies are practiced within both disciplinary and interdisciplinary environments Examines the costs and benefits of utilizing new technologies on the research process as well as the potential misuse of these techniques for methods practices Reviews "This is a path-breaking examination of the emerging social media technologies and their impact on critical qualitative methodologies. Sharlene Hesse-Biber presents a comprehensive framework for interpreting and using these new discourses. The chapters are clearly written, and very accessible to students. This book lays the foundation for the generation of scholars who want to take these emergent technologies to the next level."--Norman K. Denzin, College of Communications Scholar, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.