Using digital ethnography to research embodied information practices on social media

Abstract

Introduction. This paper discusses the use of digital ethnography to research the embodied information practices of ultrarunners. The paper considers the challenges of digital ethnography and explores how embodied and immersive methods could bring the body into digital ethnography.

Method. Digital ethnographic methods have been used as part of ongoing research exploring how ultrarunners use the affordances of social media to share embodied information. Participant observation and interviews have been the main methods of data collection.

Discussion. Embodied information can present challenges for the researcher as it is information which is difficult to access beyond the moment of practice. Reflection on use of digital ethnography has highlighted the importance of methods which bring the body into research.

Conclusions. Turning to sensory, embodied and immersive methods can support deeper understanding of embodied information practices. The paper highlights the value of ongoing reflection on methodological issues to address the challenges of researching embodied information.