
Intensive Short Course in Visual Ethnography: An innovative workshop
The Intensive Short Course in Visual Ethnography hosted by Sherubtse College in Kanglung, Bhutan, from November 18–22, 2024 brought together 20 participants from four Bhutanese higher education institutions. This workshop was designed to enhance qualitative research methodologies through visual ethnography, combining theoretical insights and practical applications.
The workshop aimed to introduce participants to the theoretical foundations of visual ethnography while providing practical training in video recording, editing, and storytelling. The Sessions included:
- Lectures on the history and theory of visual ethnography.
- Hands-on training in observation techniques, video elicitation, and editing using Da Vinci Resolve.
- Field-based mini-research projects exploring local social dynamics.
- Participants created edited research videos and multi-media reports, reflecting their newfound skills in visual storytelling.
Under the guidance of an experienced facilitation team led by Dr. Erik de Maaker and Sangay Lhaden, participants engaged in an interactive and collaborative learning environment.
The workshop’s highlight was the mini-research projects, where participants paired up to conduct field-based visual ethnographic studies. For instance, one group focused on documenting the experiences of migrant construction workers from Assam, shedding light on the often-overlooked socio-economic aspects of building houses in Kanglung.
These projects enabled participants to develop technical skills while gaining a nuanced understanding of socio-economic complexities. The use of Da Vinci Resolve for editing helped participants acquire foundational skill in time compression, framing, and storyboarding, ensuring their video narratives were polished and impactful.
The workshop achieved significant milestones, with participants developing both technical and conceptual competencies. Participants acquired essential technical and conceptual skills in camera handling, video editing, and time compression. Many attendees planned to incorporate visual methods into teaching and research, including creating documentaries and exploring ethnographic storytelling. The diversity within the cohort also fostered a rich exchange of ideas, with participants learning from each other’s varied experiences and perspectives.
By blending theoretical foundations with hands-on practice, the workshop empowered participants to explore and document cultural narratives through visual storytelling. As Bhutanese higher education embraces innovative research practices, this workshop serves as a vital step toward integrating visual ethnography into academic and cultural discourse. The success of the Intensive Short Course in Visual Ethnography highlights the power of collaboration, creativity, and storytelling in capturing the rich tapestry of human experiences. The participants’ enthusiasm and dedication promise to strengthen and expand research in Bhutan for years to come.