Reliable fieldwork begins long before you enter the field. Your data collection instrument — whether a questionnaire, interview guide, or observation checklist — must be validated and pre-tested with a small sample before full deployment.
Sampling strategy is equally critical. Whether you choose random, purposive, or stratified sampling depends on your research objectives. Documenting your rationale strengthens the credibility of your study.
Ethical conduct in the field — including informed consent, participant confidentiality, and accurate data recording — is not optional. It is the foundation of research integrity.
