Bridging Thick Data
and Statistical Modeling
A research framework integrating ethnographic depth with quantitative rigor to understand complex social phenomena.
What is Metafor?
Metafor represents a methodological approach that combines the rich, contextual insights of ethnography with the analytical power of statistical modeling. By treating thick data—detailed, qualitative observations from fieldwork—as a foundation for quantitative analysis, we create models that are both statistically robust and deeply grounded in real-world context.
Thick Data
Rich, contextual qualitative data from ethnographic fieldwork that captures the nuances of human behavior and social processes.
Ethnography
Systematic observation and documentation of social phenomena in their natural settings, providing deep understanding of context and meaning.
Statistical Modeling
Formal mathematical frameworks that transform ethnographic insights into testable hypotheses and quantifiable patterns.
The Approach
Traditional research often treats qualitative and quantitative methods as separate paradigms. Metafor challenges this division by using ethnographic thick data to inform the structure, variables, and assumptions of statistical models. This integration ensures that our models reflect the complexity of social reality while maintaining analytical rigor.
The framework is particularly valuable for studying phenomena where context matters deeply—from organizational behavior to cultural dynamics, from network formation to decision-making processes.
Get Involved
Metafor is currently in development. Sign in to access early research materials, methodological notes, and collaborative tools.