Methodological strategies and challenges in research with small heavy metal scenes: A reflection on entrance, evolution and permanence
Article
Varas-Díaz, N, Mendoza, S, Rivera-Segarra, E et al. (2016). Methodological strategies and challenges in research with small heavy metal scenes: A reflection on entrance, evolution and permanence
. 2(3), 273-290. 10.1386/mms.2.3.273_1
Varas-Díaz, N, Mendoza, S, Rivera-Segarra, E et al. (2016). Methodological strategies and challenges in research with small heavy metal scenes: A reflection on entrance, evolution and permanence
. 2(3), 273-290. 10.1386/mms.2.3.273_1
Research on small heavy metal (HM) scenes throughout the world has mostly used ethnographic and qualitative approaches to richly describe the scene and its members. As these research efforts continue to grow around the world, methodological strategies have the opportunity to become more pluralistic and tailored to particular settings. In this article, we highlight and discuss the methodological strategies implemented by our team when engaging in research with small HM scenes in the Caribbean region and discuss the benefits and challenges of such an approach. We discuss the implementation of a mixed-methods design using ethnographic observation, qualitative interviews, surveys and documentary film-making as techniques for data gathering and sharing. We discuss this process through three stages: (1) entrance (implications for the initial incursion within these small scenes); (2) evolution (the expansion of research possibilities once communal involvement is achieved); and (3) permanence (giving back to the community via systematic sharing of study results). As research with small scenes throughout the world continues to expand, we understand that scholars will benefit from frequent discussions on the methodological components of their studies. We propose that this discussion should not aim to establish a static set of rules on how to engage in research in these scenarios but, on the contrary, foster the development of living guidelines that can be modified as research ventures expand throughout the world.
