Final answer:
A researcher working as a restaurant server to study sexism is engaging in participant observation, a qualitative research method used in sociology to gather comprehensive data from within a social setting.
Step-by-step explanation:
A researcher taking a job as a restaurant server to explore sexism in the restaurant industry is an example of participant observation. This method involves researchers immersing themselves in a particular social setting, often inconspicuously, in order to gain a deep understanding of the social dynamics and behaviors present within that environment. Participant observation is a key technique in qualitative research, particularly within the field of sociology, where it is used to gather rich, in-depth data that may not be readily observable through other means.
In the case of examining sexism in the restaurant industry, the researcher would engage in the day-to-day activities of a server, paying close attention to the interactions, conversations, and practices taking place. Through this involvement, they can uncover subtle forms of discrimination and power dynamics that might otherwise go undocumented. Such an approach enables researchers to experience the social phenomena from the perspective of the subjects involved, providing a nuanced and comprehensive view of the topic being studied.