Unlike conducting experiments in the semi-controlled environment of a laboratory or collecting literature from a library, field work involves observing and collecting data from natural environments. Field work enables researchers to examine scientific theories in action in the real world.
The importance of field work
In social sciences, the focus is on people, culture and society. In their field work, for example, social scientists may interview or observe people in their natural settings to understand specific social structures. Natural sciences deal with various characteristics of nature and natural environments, e.g., animal behaviour specialists may observe animals interacting in their natural habitats.
Field work can include investigations into a novel or lesser-studied phenomenon or describe or compare variables. The primary data so obtained can be used for drawing and testing hypotheses. Field research also holds the potential to identify exciting new findings that would never be discovered without venturing into the field (e.g., the discovery of a new species).
Best practices for successful field work
Field work is time and resource-intensive. Pragmatic planning can prevent the loss of time, data, and effort. Let’s examine some approaches for successful and stress-free field work!
1. Plan well ahead
Every aspect of the proposed field research should be chalked out clearly, in terms of space, time, cost, and resources.
Target area: Ensure that you have the means to get to and from the site easily. Have route plans and maps handy.
Time: Check that the predicted weather conditions will be conducive to your study. If you are meeting people, fix the time and date and ensure that the participants have been intimated. If samples like seeds or fruits are being collected, plan your visit in the right season.
Material requirements: If your field work involves certain equipment or instruments, obtain them in advance for the duration of your visit.
To add to the above, always consider all possibilities and be prepared for glitches. In other words, always have a plan B (and plan C and D, if needed!)
2. Permission, permits, and more
It is essential to obtain permission to access your target site, which might be within private or government property. Obtain the required permits for visiting, sample collection, photography, etc., from those in charge. If any ethical considerations are involved (e.g., dealing with threatened species), contact the necessary authorities.
Acquaint yourself with local rules and regulations and abide by them. Follow the expected behaviour and dress code of the target area.
3. Precautions and protection
Your field work may take you far away from familiar territory. Personal safety is paramount. Here are some ways to ensure that
· Leave your itinerary, your contact details and local contacts with someone not accompanying you on the trip.Be aware of travel advisories if visiting places with civil or military unrest.
· Check that you have sufficient reserves of basic necessities such as water, food, batteries, and a first aid kit.
· Protect yourself against potential natural hazards (e.g., insect repellent, sunscreen, safety goggles, and gloves).
You also need to ensure the safety of your hard-earned data and samples. Loss of data or careless collection (e.g., mislabelling) can severely affect your findings and conclusions.
· Be meticulous in note-taking and labelling.
· Protect field notebooks, photographs, data storage devices, and/or collected samples from the natural elements (waterproofing material, safe storage).
· Note any loss of material or data points.
· Try to back up your data whenever you can.
4. Prioritise your wellbeing
Field work can be exhausting and stressful! Go easy on yourself and make sure you get ample rest, food, and hydration.
To Conclude
Field research is a principal element of certain studies to collect vital data and samples. Undertaking field work can be challenging, but by following the best practices, you can optimise the experience. Once you are back in the safety of your lab or home, you can look back at the experiences; you may even have a story or two to recount!