A field report’s purpose, typically used in the social sciences, is to describe the observation of people, places, and/or events and to analyze that observation data in order to identify and categorize common themes in relation to the research problem underpinning the study. The content represents the researcher’s interpretation of the meaning found in data that has been gathered during one or more observational events.
Well, that’s a pretty technical way of saying that you use it to record data about observations and make inferences. It’s a scientific inquiry.
And the field report could begin as a humble, little notebook. Just something you jot down ideas in. The things you see. The noises, smells, and sensations. What you feel.
Listen, look, and think. Not just requirements for field reports, but for living a meaningful and present life.
Michael's Musings 