Most of the time when you are given a practical task, you are required to submit a field report based on your observation and findings of the given task. In order to provide a good field report, you must know how to make one by following the format supplied with suitable information about it. Take time to read the following details.
A field report allows researchers to apply theories and analysis of what they have learned inside the classroom and during practical observation outside of the classroom. Its sole purpose is to describe what you have observed in the environment, may it be a specific person, place, thing or occurrence. Field reports contain interpretations from the findings or the data that has been gathered.
These are often assigned in fields where it is possible to apply the relevant theories and concepts. It can be in the field of social sciences, criminal justice, education, health care professions, architecture and even in services related to electrical operations and more. You are assigned to create a field report to test whether you have applied in real life the things that were taught to you or whether you have understood the concepts of an existing matter. It even helps you develop your skills in collecting data in order to obtain evidence that practices professionalism contributing to the theories and concepts learned.
WHAT? – describes the observation
For example: What is the effect of online classes to students during the COVID-19 Pandemic?
WHERE? – refers to the location of the observation
WHEN? – refers to the time and date that the observation was conducted
For example: The observation was conducted on the 7th day of March 2020.
WHO? – refers to the information of participants
For example: All students of different levels who are studying under synchronous learning.
WHY? – refers to the reason why you conducted the observation
For example: To determine the effectiveness of online classes
When writing a field report, you have to record every aspect of your observation. Follow the five W’s that are listed above. Find time to make explanations of the things that you have observed and stick into the report’s objectives so that you will be always guided.
Your instructor or manager does not need to be present because you are the only one responsible for conducting and doing the task itself.
The person or the object studied may or may not be present when conducting the report.
Your report should only limit the important details of your observation. Keep it concise.
Just like conducting a research study, it is quite difficult to write a field report. You just have to apply the methods and techniques to make it easier, more simple and understandable.
