This course is the first in a series of three steps that provides the instruction and experience in conducting and analyzing field research as part of a dedicated research team. Anyone planning to run or collaborate in a field research project would benefit from the opportunity to take part in a functioning research team.

The Fieldwork course follows Introduction to Policy and Data Analysis and focuses on preparing the tools that will be used in the field to gather information that is relevant to a particular research program. In each case, groups within this class will work with a client in the country or region to design and train in the use of tools that to address the client’s needs.

The course covers the design and construction of surveys, semi-structured interviews, and focus groups, as well as how to design sampling strategies for each. Course participants will design working versions of at least two of these tools and prepare them for use in the field. The tools that come out of this course will be the ones that are used when groups go into the field on their J-Term practica.