BY SEAN DAVIS
2012 CSUSM Student Research Competition Finalist
Research experience has allowed me to grow and develop as a social researcher through the cultivation of the qualitative skills of ethnography and interviewing. It has contributed to my decision to pursue a qualitative project for my Master’s thesis, which involves the decline of the printing industry and its effects on the working class.
About my Research
My research uses qualitative research methods to explore social phenomenon using the voices of those most closely associated with such phenomenon. Using the qualitative methods of participant observation and interviewing, I studied the happenings at a local skate park in Oceanside, California. I observed and analyzed the social interactions and processes of social learning within the park as told by the members of the skating community. The applications of my results are currently being used to support the construction of future skate parks in the North County San Diego region.
Sean Davis is among the twelve finalists representing CSUSM at the 26th annual statewide Student Research Competition held at CSU Long Beach on May 4-5. Hear firsthand how his research is leading to new discoveries, positively impacting his education and propeling him toward his future aspirations.
