The Ethnographic Field School believes that expertise in ethnographic research requires early immersion in a positive field experience and exposure to rigorous and systematic field methods. To achieve this, Ethnographic Field School students engage in constructive, collaborative
relationships with local community sponsors. The Field School places students in volunteer positions at community-based organizations, emphasizes contributions to community life, and directs students to conduct applied research that will directly benefit the host community. Student research activities are directed by their local sponsors with input from experts from the Center for Cultural Understanding and Change at The Field Museum. Weekly meetings with the EFS Director ensure that each student receives one on one guidance and assistance. Students conduct their research studies based upon the mutual interests and needs of student and community sponsor
