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Obviously, the choice of fieldwork is dictated
by the identity of the researcher and it is
quite possible for researchers to use this type
of methodology without knowing their approach
was auto-ethnographic. However, it needs to be
remembered that the "insider role" (Rosecrance,
1986) can result in a lack of objectivity
resulting in a research bias in interpreting and
reporting information. Hayano (1979) countered
this argument by stating that subjectivism and
personal involvement may not be methodological
problems but rather assets that can deepen
ethnographic understanding. Furthermore,
first-hand experiences of gambling used in
conjunction with some form of objective analysis
may enhance the researcher's understanding and
outlook.
It is hoped that these proposed explanations
will benefit future research in this area by
providing researchers with an understanding of
some of the difficulties of gathering data and
offering practical advice on what can be done to
facilitate data collection, and thus, improve
validity and reliability. Unfortunately,
identification of slot machine gamblers is often
accomplished by a "search and seek" method of
trawling local gambling establishments.
Therefore, researchers are often limited to
collecting data during playing time and not
outside it. Data acquisition would be improved
if gamblers were not occupied by playing their
slot machine.
Surrender: Finally some casinos offer the player
the option to surrender on the first two cards.
If the player does not like their prospects he
may forfeit half the bet as well as his cards.
This option is generally only offered after the
dealer checks for blackjack, known as "late
surrender."
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