Nora Kottmann (PhD, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf) is principal researcher and head of the research group “Methods and Methodologies” at the German Institute for Japanese Studies in Tokyo (DIJ Tokyo). Her research focuses on issues related to gender, intimacy, mobility, space, (not) belonging and methods in social science research. Recent publications include the edited volume (with Cornelia Reiher) Studying Japan. Handbook of Research Designs, Fieldwork and Methods (2020).
Cornelia Reiher is professor of Japanese Studies, vice director of the Graduate School of East Asian Studies and head of the research group “Urban-rural migration and rural revitalization in Japan” at Freie Universität Berlin. Her main research interests include rural Japan, food studies, globalization, science and technology studies and methods in social science Japan research. Recent publications include the co-edited methods handbook (with Nora Kottmann) Studying Japan: Handbook of research designs, fieldwork and methods (2020).
Area Studies and Qualitative Methods
December 1, 2021
12:30-1:20p.m.
Slide deck from Dec. 1 presentation
Recent years have seen a growing demand for more systematic and transparent research practices in Area Studies. Based on their recently edited handbook Studying Japan, a comprehensive guide on qualitative methods, research designs and fieldwork in social science research on Japan, Kottmann and Reiher will discuss the role and potential of qualitative methods for Area Studies. They will outline general discussions, give concrete examples and introduce recent developments and trends.
