What is it? Field notes are a researcher’s records of observations of the environment, people, or situations related to research questions. In other instances, field notes are the researcher’s queries, personal thoughts, and ideas connected to observations, interviews and focus groups.

Field notes can be an essential part of qualitative research designs, particularly in ethnography, case studies, and participatory action research. The inclusion of field notes adds another element of qualitative rigor to a project because it gives context to other types of data collected. Rich descriptions of the study’s setting aid in situating a qualitative study in the larger societal context.

There may be some limitations to field notes that need consideration. Field notes can be perceived as a subjective interpretation of what is occurring. Another drawback is that more than one activity can occur at the same time, so some activities may be missed while taking field notes. Therefore, researchers use a variety of techniques to record their field notes, such as video, audio, tablet, paper and pen, or even response art.

Depending on the context and nature of your study, other ways of recording field notes may need to be adapted. Our consultants can assist in the preparation of immersing yourself in the field and recording field notes.