Ethnographic fieldnotes are frequently applied for data collection by CKC in social research, particularly in survey activities conducted in Quang Nam province in early August 2024 .

These fieldnotes are recorded flexibly based on the researcher’s preferences and specific conditions. CKC has utilized various methods such as traditional notebooks, technological devices, images, and fieldnote applications.

To rapidly expand observations, adjust and maximize the field information collection process, CKC always performs quick analyses of ethnographic records whenever suitable conditions arise. These analyses often involve identifying keywords and performing thematic analysis.

The flexibility of ethnographic fieldnotes can sometimes lead to confusion for researchers when deciding what to observe and record amidst numerous simultaneous activities. To mitigate this, researchers should prepare with a clear observation and recording plan and focus on building tacit knowledge—knowledge gained from observation and experience that is often unconscious and difficult to articulate. Tacit knowledge has been proven to be crucial for effective field notes.

While ethnographic fieldnote is fundamental in social research, accurately and comprehensively capturing the rich, ever-changing information in real-life conditions requires researchers to undergo a long process of developing and refining their knowledge and skills, as well as staying updated with the latest tools and applications.

(Quyen Mai)

Source:

· Delamomt, Sarah (2019). Ethnographic Fieldnotes: The Foundations of Ethnography, Sage publication.

· Antony, Alexander (2015). “Tacit Knowledge and Analytic Autoethnography: Methodological Reflections on the Sociological Translation of Self-Experience”. Bielefeld: transcript Verlag

Starting in July 2024, Poppy Fowler, an Australian Volunteer, will be joining CKC as a Gender Specialist through the Australian Volunteers Program (AVP). Poppy’s involvement at CKC will help enhance the organisation’s capacity in gender research and practice, aligning with CKC’s vision and strategic development goals to establish itself as a leading research center focusing on gender and sustainable development in Central Vietnam.

This will be Poppy’s first volunteering assignment in Hue, and it will mark the third time that CKC has collaborated with Australian volunteers through AVP. Since 2018, CKC has been privileged to receive support from Australian Volunteers International (AVI) through AVP in hosting volunteers.

CKC values international volunteering as a meaningful approach to capacity development and highly appreciates the support and commitment of volunteers in sustainably developing the capacity of partner organisations. We are dedicated to continuously promoting exchange, learning, and understanding between the organisation and volunteers in mutually respectful and long-term partnerships.

(Tu Nguyen)

In response to challenges of the new era, the United Nations Secretary-General has emphasised the crucial need for young people to enhance their skills for the burgeoning green and digital economies*.

Over the past year, CKC supported young people in Hue city with these critical skills, preparing them to make their significant impact on the world.

In fall – winter 2023, CKC contributed to improve energy management and auditing skills among lower secondary students through the ‘YEAH! – Promoting Energy Saving Practices for Students in Hue: Small Actions towards Environmental Protection‘ project funded by the Australian Volunteers International (AVI).

In spring – summer 2024, CKC continued with the journey to improve young people’s digital skills within the framework of the Data Science Explorers Program (ASEAN Data Science Explorers 2024) funded by the ASEAN Foundation. CKC organised 25 free training sessions on data analysis (Analytics Clouds) and application development (Apps Development) on the SAP platform for more than 1,100 young people between the ages of 15 and 30.

On World Youth Skills Day 2024 (July 15), themed ‘Youth Skills for Peace and Development,’ CKC proudly stands alongside Vietnam’s young generation, offering opportunities for learning and growth to inspire their development.

Source: UN Press, 2024, accessed at: https://press.un.org/en/2024/sgsm22297.doc.htm

(Han Nguyen)