Overview

This groundbreaking book makes the often-undiscussed aspects of fieldwork accessible to novice researchers by drawing on the authentic experiences of young field researchers from diverse backgrounds. From landing in unfamiliar territories and navigating local politics to data collection challenges and psychological impacts, this practical guide transforms real experiences into actionable insights. Venturing into the field for the first time can be both exhilarating and daunting – unlike traditional manuals, this book offers multiple perspectives that prepare you for the realities of fieldwork while providing tools like SWOT analysis to evaluate your preparation. The journey unfolds through comprehensive chapters that follow the complete fieldwork cycle – from proposal development to post-fieldwork reflections. Learn how to judge the quality of your research design, make the most of preparatory visits, adapt when original plans need revision, and handle unexpected situations from medical emergencies to political complexities. Unique chapters address specific challenges such as conducting research in your hometown, safety concerns for female researchers, and the psychological dimensions of fieldwork that range from alienation to powerlessness. This essential resource serves multiple audiences across disciplines where field data collection is central – ethnography, anthropology, social geography, environmental studies, and beyond. It's invaluable for Master's and MPhil students preparing for their first field experience, PhD candidates planning extensive fieldwork, and supervisors guiding them through this critical process. Perfect as course material for fieldwork preparation classes and as a discussion tool for communities of practice, this book bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring that new researchers feel supported rather than isolated in their fieldwork journey.

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9781041152309

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Author Information

Hans Sonneveld has been a specialist in the field of doctoral studies over 35 years. He is the founder of the Netherlands Centre of Expertise for Doctoral Education, the author of The Art of Writing a PhD Proposal, and provided training programmes for starting PhD supervisors and PhD candidates all over Europe.

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