Field surveys

Field surveys are, as the name suggests, conducted in the field that suits the survey. Some research questions can only be answered by field observation and not via surveys or interviews.

Field surveys are e.g. used when measuring unconscious or involuntary behavior is being studied. This can not be studied in an unnatural setting such as a laboratory and cannot be gauged by asking direct questions. Field surveys are often used alongside other research methods.

An example of a research topic for a field survey could be the level of activity of students during math class at school. The researcher would observe the math classes in that school and note the students’ activity.

When launching a field survey, it is important that there is a clear definition of what is to be studied and the way the data is to be recorded. The Institute’s employees are trained in such preparation.

The Institute’s project managers can provide further information via telephone +354-525-4545 or via email ssri@hi.is