Using informal networks to research informal networks

In this chapter, the author reflects on his PhD research on the practice of Wasta, the informal networks historically based on family and tribal connections. He explores his experience as a Jordanian researcher collecting qualitative data in Jordan, a networked society, whilst being based at a UK university. The chapter highlights the challenges of conducting such research. It also signposts and reflects on the tensions between the data collection setting and the research policies and ethical expectations and rules of a university in the UK. In doing so it brings forward the importance of acknowledging and accommodating the difference in the socio-cultural context of where data is collected and the research institution and the importance of reflecting this in designing and executing the plan for collecting data. Recommendations are offered to future researchers who want to conduct qualitative research in networked societies.