Which research method involves the extensive observation of an entire social setting?

The correct answer is ethnography, which is a qualitative research method focused on exploring the cultural practices, social interactions, and daily lives of people within their natural environments. Ethnography requires researchers to immerse themselves in the social setting they are studying, often participating in the life of the community and conducting in-depth observations over an extended period. This immersive approach allows researchers to gather rich, nuanced data that reflects the perspectives and experiences of the individuals in that setting.

In contrast, case studies typically concentrate on a particular individual, group, or event, analyzing it in detail without necessarily providing the broader observational context found in ethnography. Survey research employs standardized questionnaires to gather data from a larger population, which limits the depth of understanding about specific social settings or cultural nuances. Content analysis focuses on analyzing existing texts or media for patterns, themes, or biases rather than engaging with people directly in their social environments. Thus, ethnography stands out as the method that best captures the entirety of a social setting through extensive and participatory observation.