We have created this code of ethics to guide our research as we begin observing and creating livestream footage. This method may be useful for observing organic, spontaneous interactions in existing footage, and may be used by ethnographers to capture these interactions. While these videos would be extremely useful for collecting ethnographic data on daily interactions, it is necessary to consider ethical issues surrounding informed consent and privacy.

  • Care is central to the work of ethnographers. By nature, live streaming is spontaneous and unplanned, which is useful in data collection, although it poses many challenges for obtaining informed consent from participants. While some live streams only involve the person creating the content, it is also possible that others may appear in the footage, knowingly or unknowingly. Respect the privacy of individuals who appear in the videos, especially if it is unclear if they consented to being filmed.
  • If using footage found online rather than creating new livestream footage, be aware of the type of content being viewed. While some livestreams may be intended for broader audiences, including musical performances, it is also possible that footage may be more intimate and intended for a smaller audience, including videos of family events. Consider the content of the footage taken in order to protect the privacy of those appearing in the footage.
  • If an ethnographer is creating new livestream footage, it may be best to indicate this in some way, such as a sign or garment, so as to leave some agency in deciding whether or not to participate with the participants before they appear in the footage.
  • If possible, explain procedures to those featured in the livestream and obtain informed consent. This may not be applicable for interactions with large groups or strangers, but it would be best to obtain informed consent if footage is taken at a field site that allows for this, for example a school.
  • If you are viewing comments and reactions appearing during the livestream, take precautions to provide anonymity for those providing the comments, and ensure that there are no identifiable traits.