Fieldwork: meaning, definitions and examples
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fieldwork
[ ˈfildˌwərk ]
research context
Fieldwork refers to the collection of data outside of a laboratory or controlled environment. It is commonly used in disciplines such as anthropology, archaeology, and environmental science, where researchers gather information directly from the field to study specific phenomena or cultures.
Synonyms
data collection, field research, investigation, research.
Examples of usage
- The anthropologist conducted fieldwork in a remote village.
- Fieldwork is essential for gathering firsthand data for the study.
- She spent the summer doing fieldwork on climate change impact.
- The geologist's fieldwork involved mapping rock formations.
Translations
Translations of the word "fieldwork" in other languages:
🇵🇹 trabalho de campo
🇮🇳 क्षेत्र कार्य
🇩🇪 Feldarbeit
🇮🇩 kerja lapangan
🇺🇦 польова робота
🇵🇱 prace terenowe
🇯🇵 フィールドワーク
🇫🇷 travail de terrain
🇪🇸 trabajo de campo
🇹🇷 saha çalışması
🇰🇷 현장 작업
🇸🇦 عمل ميداني
🇨🇿 terénní práce
🇸🇰 práca v teréne
🇨🇳 实地工作
🇸🇮 terensko delo
🇮🇸 vettvísisvinna
🇰🇿 далалық жұмыс
🇬🇪 მინდვრის სამუშაო
🇦🇿 sahə işi
🇲🇽 trabajo de campo
Etymology
The term 'fieldwork' originates from the combination of 'field', indicating an outdoor or natural setting, and 'work', referencing the act of doing or engaging in a task. The usage of the term has evolved over time, particularly in academic and scientific contexts, to describe hands-on research activities carried out in the real world. The concept gained prominence in the 19th century as various social sciences developed, with researchers needing to step outside the confines of their study rooms and engage with their subjects directly. In disciplines like anthropology and geology, the need for empirical data collected in situ became increasingly recognized, solidifying 'fieldwork' as a foundational practice. Today, it encompasses various methodologies across numerous fields, underscoring the importance of direct observation and interaction in empirical research.