Field Notes
First, they work as descriptions: you write them as notes and details of
time, date, activities, settings, observations, behavior and conversations
in the field. Field notes keep track of observations that you generally tend
to forget over time. They also supplement your research data because
field notes help you keep track of observations during interviews and
place documentations. According to Thomas Schwandt, descriptive
information is your “attempt to accurately document factual data [e.g.,
date and time] and the settings, actions, behaviors, and conversations
that you observe.”
Second, field notes serve as interpretations. They allow you to examine
value-laden and subjective aspects of field work. As you write your field
notes, in a different section distinct from the descriptive narratives, write
your interpretations of what you encounter in the field. Theorize and
suggest explanations for what you see. Explain what you observed and
ruminate on why your observations are relevant and important. Answer
the “so-what” question.
Third, field notes are reflections. This includes an introspective
commentary of what you observe and experience — and what all this
means to you. According to Thomas Schwandt, reflective information
includes recording of “your thoughts, ideas, questions, and concerns as
you are conducting the observation.”
Characteristics of Field Notes
Be accurate. You only get one chance to observe a particular
moment in time, so before you conduct your observations,
practice taking notes in a setting that is similar to your
observation site in regards to number of people, the
environment, and social dynamics. This will help you develop
your own style of transcribing observations quickly and
accurately.
Format
Date:
Site/location:
Activity (explain in detail):
Participants (list names):
Length of Observation:
Description and photograph
1. Field notes on Migrating Students in Delhi provide a unique insight into the
challenges and experiences faced by students who come to the city in search of
education and opportunities. Delhi, being the capital city of India, has always been a
hub for students from across the country who migrate here to pursue higher education
in various institutions. These students bring with them diverse backgrounds, cultures,
and aspirations, which shape their experience in the city.
However, migrating students face a host of challenges, including
accommodation, language barriers, cultural differences, and financial
constraints.
These individuals have played a crucial role in highlighting the challenges faced by migrating
students, such as cultural adjustment, language barriers, financial constraints, and feelings of
homesickness. By creating a platform for dialogue and exchange, these key figures have contributed
to a better understanding of the migrant student experience and have facilitated the implementation
of support systems and interventions to address their needs.
