This type of ethnographic research, while not a full-scale ethnography, is designed so that an experienced ethnographer in a particular city, who is already working with drug users, can address questions and issues of interest to work group members. Generally, these ethnographic projects can be conducted over a short period of time at relatively little expense and, ideally, should be designed and supervised by ethnographers who have formal training and are already conducting studies in the area. Short-term ethnographic studies were conducted in 12 of the CEWG cities between 1994 and 1996. Five of these studies are briefly described in Appendix I . Ethnographers often work as faculty in university anthropology or sociology departments, two disciplines with strong traditions of training in the area.
Ethnographers now work in other disciplines as well.
Since the 1950s, ethnography has been part of public health training in some areas. Many ethnographers now work outside university settings. In selecting an ethnographer, it is important to review the person's training, type of degree, publications, professional organization, and affiliation. Also, read the individual's recently published ethnographic research, especially if it involves the field of drug abuse. Spend some time with the ethnographer discussing issues and research topics of greatest interest.