Participatory Work-Along as an Apprentice—A Qualitative Research Tool in Studying Organizationsand Work Practices

Abstract

Participatory work-along implies a method whereby the researcher learns through entering into a direct working relationship with people and performing work activities together with them. This method can provide a solid empirical basis for understanding practice as well as the opportunity to uncover practices that are taken for granted. The possibilities work-along in an apprenticeship role can offer to a researcher studying work organizations and work practices, as well as challenges related to such a methodological approach, are discussed in relation to fieldwork carried out within the public care system for elderly people in Norway and Sweden.