特定区域信息的收集:一项基于田野调查经验的分析

Information Collection of an Area: An Analysis Based on Fieldwork Experience

在区域国别研究中,田野调查是学者收集有关特定区域精细、详实信息的主要方法。田野调查包括独立观察、问卷调查、访谈等多种具体研究方法,这些方法要求研究者融入当地社会的程度不同。在收集信息方面,上述方法各有利弊。研究者通常根据调查过程适时调整研究方法,并尝试提出新的研究手段。同时,研究者通过运用新技术并结合不同类型的方法以收集所需信息。受研究问题性质、研究者所处的自然环境或社会背景、田野调查中的权力关系和研究者技术能力等因素的影响,研究者在调查中常面临进入实地的权限、人身与信息安全风险、潜在参与者的阻碍,以及资金和时间限制等挑战。

Fieldwork is an important method for scholars to collect detailed information about a specific area in area studies. Its tool kit includes observance, questionnaire survey, interview and so forth which require researchers, to different extents, engage with the local community. Each of these instruments has its own advantages and disadvantages on gathering information. Usually, researchers adjust the methods in adaption to the investigation process and try to propose new approaches. At the same time, researchers use new technologies and combine different types of methods to gather information. When doing fieldwork, influenced by factors such as the nature of the research question, the natural environment or social background where investigators locate, the power relations imbedded in the fieldwork, as well as researchers’ skills, they have to face challenges such as limited access to the field, personal and information security risk, obstacles to potential participants, limitation of funds and time.