The study of device ecologies in-the-wild presents challenges for researchers. This study builds on previous research using ethnographic techniques with low researcher involvement and real-time collection of data. It seeks to determine how suitable video filming is by users of their own activities in the wild, using first person point of view head-mounted cameras, to provide rich information about their use of an ecology of devices, apps and online services. How does such filming affect the perceived enjoyment of their activity (compared to when not using the video capturing device)? Two geocachers recorded 11 hours of video covering 7 days of activities over a month and the video captured, combined with semi-structured follow-up interviews, indicated that such a method may have value when studying users in- the-wild as a complement to existing methods, especially as a method for enhancing rapid ethnography.

This study introduces rapid design ethnography as a research strategy that may be used in design as an alternative to conventional ethnography. It interrogates this strategy by means of a study of the Ghanaian Adinkra symbols. Adinkra is an indigenous graphic language that carries specific cultural narratives that embody proverbs and or poetic messages. In view of this, this study discusses how a collaboration between ethnography (and rapid ethnography) and design can be merged to create appropriate visual communication with specific reference to this indigenous visual vernacular. The study also highlights the evolution of rapid ethnographic techniques in comparison to conventional ethnography, as well as the way that these techniques may be of assistance to both designer and ethnographer. / Mini Dissertation (MA)--University of Pretoria, 2016. / Visual Arts / MA / Unrestricted