Researching Transnational Social Spaces: A Qualitative Study of the Spanish Second Generation in Switzerland

Author(s) : Marina Richter

Source : http://dx.doi.org/10.17169/fqs-13.3.1678

Abstract:

“Transnational social spaces, as they are increasingly researched in various fields of scientific inquiry and specifically in the area of transnational migration, constitute a complex field of research. This complexity raises, apart from theoretical questions, increasingly methodological ones. How can we research transnational social spaces? Which instruments and methods might be helpful in this endeavor? The article addresses these questions by presenting a methodological approach used in a project involving people of second-generation Spanish origin living in Switzerland. It discusses the theoretical anchors (time, people, and sites) that constitute the underlying logic of the approach and the various mixed-methods components such as biographical interviews, semi-structured interviews, visual materials, observation, and drawing. Finally, the conclusion consists of a critical reflection on the proposed methodology and the data gathered.”

Keywords: space; place; transnational migration; second generation; Switzerland; Spain