Research conduction is not just limited to your laboratory, library, or work place setting. As part of your research you may have to step out in the field (any place other than your regular research lab or work station) to collect raw data for analysis and then publish it as a field study report. In this article, we will discuss the elements of a field study report and the key points to consider while writing one! Show
What is a Field Study Report?A field study report is defined as a documentation of analysis of particular phenomena, behaviors, processes based on theories and observations made by the researcher in the field. These observed and analyzed theories are used to identify solutions for a specific project or case report. What is the Importance of Field Study Report?
How to Write Field Research Notes?A field study report begins with an idea and ends with a solution. Hence, while conducting field research, one must follow a planned route of taking notes for proper documentation of the observations made. A successful field study report begins when the researcher is involved in the observational research process of taking proper notes. Based on the methods, the field research notes are categorized in four different types: 1. Job Notes:
2. Field Notes Proper:
3. Methodological Notes:
4. Journals and Diaries:
Examples of Things to Document During Field Study1. Physical Setting: Observe the characteristics of the space where the study is being conducted. 2. Objects and Material: The presence, placement, and arrangement of objects that affect the behavior of the subject being studied. 3. Language Used: Observe the language being used by study participants (in case of human participation). 4. Behavior Cycles: Document who is performing what behavior at what time and situation. 5. Physical Characteristics of Participants/Subjects: Observe and note personal characteristics of subjects. 6. Body Movements: Things such as body posture or facial expressions and assess if these movements support or contradict the language used while communicating. Data Collection in Field Report (Sampling Techniques)Data collection process in field study is also known as sampling. It refers to the process used to select a portion of the population for study. Selection of an ideal sampling technique is imperative to obtain the richest possible source of information to answer the research questions. Different Types of Sampling Techniques:Ad Libitum Sampling This technique involves observing whatever seems interesting at the moment. It does not follow an organized system of recording the observations. Behavior Sampling This sampling technique involves watching the entire group of subjects and recording each occurrence of a specific behavior of interest with reference to which individuals were involved. Continuous Recording This sampling technique includes recording of frequencies, durations, and latencies in a continuous and systematic pattern. Focal Sampling The focal sampling technique involves observing one individual/subject for a specified amount of time and recording all instances of that individual’s behavior. Instantaneous Sampling The technique of instantaneous sampling involves dividing observation sessions into short intervals by sample points. One-Zero Sampling The one-zero sampling technique is similar to instantaneous sampling. It involves recording only if the behaviors of interest have occurred at any time during an interval instead of at the instant of the sampling point. Scan Sampling The scan sampling technique involves taking a census of the entire observed group at predetermined time periods and recording what each individual is doing at that moment. What is the Structure and Writing Style of Field Study Report?A field study report does not have a standard format; however, the following factors determined its structure and writing style:
A field study report includes 6 main elements as follows: 1. IntroductionThe introduction section should describe the objective and important theories or concepts underpinning your field study. More importantly, it should describe the organization’s nature or setting where you are conducting the observation—the types of observations conducted, the focus of your research study, what was observed, and which methods were used for collecting the data. Furthermore, it is important to include a review of pertinent literature. 2. Description of ActivitiesIt becomes imperative for researchers to provide the information to the readers about what happened during the field study. Hence, you must include the details of all events that take place during your field research. The description section helps in answering the five “WH” questions as mentioned below:
What did you see and hear in your area of study?
Where does the background information of the research setting is observed and reported?
Why are you conducting this field research?, The reason behind particular thing happening , and Why have you included or excluded specific information?
Who are the participants in terms of gender, age, ethnicity, and other relevant variables from your observation?
When is the study being conducted (day or time when occurring actions are observed and noted)? 3. Analysis and InterpretationWhile you are on the field conducting the study, you are likely to observe multiple things. However, it is up to you as to which observations do you want to interpret and record in the report. This allows you to show the reader that you are interpreting events like an informed observer. Furthermore, your theoretical framework helps you in making this decision. The analysis and interpretation of your field observations must always be placed in the larger context of the theories described in the introduction. Some questions to ask yourself when analyzing your observations are as follows:
4. Conclusion and RecommendationsThe conclusion of your field study report should summarize your report and emphasize the importance of your observations. This section has to be concise and relevant to your field study and must not include any new information. Furthermore, it is imperative to highlight any recommendations that you may have for readers to consider while conducting similar study. Additionally, describe any unanticipated problems you encountered and note the limitations of your study. Limit your conclusion to around two to three paragraphs. 5. ReferencesThe reference section must include every source that you referred to and used while writing your field study report. Since format for writing references may differ for every university, you must consult your professor to understand the format and write it accordingly. 6. AppendixThis section includes information that is not essential to explain your findings, but supports your analysis [especially repetitive or lengthy information]. It validates your conclusions and contextualize a related point. This helps the reader to understand the overall field study report. 6 Key Points to Consider While Writing a Field Study ReportA field study report focuses on factual and observational details of a project case. It must help the reader understand how theory applies to real-world scenarios. Hence, it should cover the circumstances and contributing factors to derive conclusive results from the observed and collated raw data. Below are the key points to consider while writing a field study report: 1. Define the Objective of Your Field Report
2. Construct a Theoretical Framework
3. Record Study Observations and Analysis
4. Include Photo Evidence of Observed Items
5. Record Overall Assessment and Recommendations
6. Validate the Observations with a Signature
Did you every try writing a field study report? How difficult or easy was it? What methods do you follow while writing a field report? Let us know about it in the comments section below! What does research writing involve?Research writing is writing that uses evidence (from journals, books, magazines, the Internet, experts, etc.) to persuade or inform an audience about a particular point. Research writing exists in a variety of different forms.
Which phase of the writing process is it best to conduct research?Writing is a process that can be divided into three stages: Pre-writing, drafting and the final revising stage which includes editing and proofreading. In the first stage you research your topic and make preparatory work before you enter the drafting stage.
Why is it important to plan your document before you start drafting it?In order to produce a high-quality document, important decisions and specific planning is needed before you start writing, especially in relation to document design and identifying your target audience.
Which of the following can be done to make Paragraph more coherent for readers?Repeating key words or phrases helps connect and focus idea(s) throughout the essay. Repetition also helps the reader remain focused and headed in the right direction.
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