Conversation and Halloween

If it seems you just can't find any interesting details to bring up about your conversation, keep asking questions about your assumptions. Language is often the first thing we tend to overlook when we are trying to understand ourselves and the discourse communities we are a part of. That is why an "outsiders" view is so important. Since they are not part of the shared knowledge, they often can see things insiders can't see. Shared knowledge is cozy term, but it can also be a limitation. So, do your best to question what seems "normal" about the DC you are studying. If need be, refer back to the Guide to Analyzing a DC. What words do you see? How do engage in conversation? Is their silence? Curse words? Slang? Roles? All of these elements are important.

Continually refer to the Calendar of Due Dates for Ethnography to keep you on track. I have also posted a copy in the Media Room.

Have a fun weekend. Don't forget, our very own Sean is having a party (check out his bio for more details)--you have to dress up though. And if you are going to drink, you know the speech--have some be the designated driver, or take a taxi. Let me know if you have questions. C