Zeisel

I found this very relevant to the research I expect to do, especially since researching identity involves observations as much as interviews and other methods.

Observing physical traces: find reflection of previous activity not produced
What to look for:

• connections (between people, ideas, groups)

• separations (the question of why would there be a separation between two specific buildings or streets)
• displays of self
• personalization, identification, group membership, public messages

Observing environmental behavior

• empathetic/direct/dynamic/variably intrusive approaches - I think being direct about identity might be something to try, but might be awkward, being empathetic brings too many biases and assumptions into play, being variably intrusive is a necessary approach if I want to really talk to youth about semi-personal topics (personal only since I would be a stranger), and dynamic is a very good approach because it incorporates change, cause, effect, and extrapolation
• Secret or recognized outsider - it might be nice to blend in to observe so that people act the way they usually do, but I will be recognized in a conversation, which is fine as long as I make my purpose clear and use the right tone/words
• Marginal versus full participant - this is tricky. I would be marginally asking Berliners about their identity, but most heart-to-hearts involve sharing. It might work to share (if appropriate) some experiences and thoughts regarding my own identity.
  
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