Field Diary

• The field diary is basic document that contains all the data collected. Facts and interpretation are to be written separately. Conversations should be written in vernacular language.

Two kinds of field diary

• Taking notes on spot.
• Writing detailed diary.

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Diary content should be organized in two categories

1.observations.

2.Impressions.

Observations

The documenter should write what he or she saw or heard.

Observations include descriptions of

Physical setting- climate geographical arrea and resources

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Demographic setting- general characteristics of people.

Organizational setting- the different social levels in the system. The degree of complexity in the social system.

Impressions

Write down what was actually seen and then write down your own impressions of the vent. It helps the researcher evaluate and give meaning to the observation and new ideas may emerge that may lead to better understanding of the system.