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. Give the ethnographer an overview of why the network wants to pursue the study. Spend some time with the ethnographer as the study progresses to see what sorts of information are being collected and to see if adjustments need to be made by adding additional questions or by refocusing some of the questions.