I have learnt that a researcher does not get served data on a silver platter, so to speak. As a researcher you have to work hard, in order to attain your goal.

This involves having your tools at hand when going to meet respondents. And you should be psychologically prepared for the fieldwork data collection task ahead.

Here is my story of why I conclude so.

In a period of three days, as part of my Participatory Action Research Writing Masterclass training, I conducted two separate field visits.

The First Field Visit

I came to class for our usual in-the-classroom training session.

Little did I know that our trainer had in mind that she was going to surprise us with a fieldwork assignment.

When she gave us the instructions to go out to the field and collect factual data from real people and authorities, my fear hit hard.

I thought to myself, I must go and collect data, ha!!!

I was shocked, because I was not prepared for data collection. I thought I had no idea of where to begin from.

When I set off for the journey, too much fear covered me. I went cold and it felt like I was in ice. In my heart and mind, I was thinking oh God help me please and give me what to say.

The first office that I entered, I was so nervous and I believe I had some sort of stage fright. I found my self unable and I couldn’t greet the gentleman I met.

My heart was beating so loud and fast that I thought I would faint.

I believe the people I interviewed that day realized I was not prepared. And that I was not sure what I was doing.

The Second Field Visit

Then came the second field visit.

Wow! What a difference it made that our trainer had told us in advance that we were going for data collection the following day.

I said yes!

And told myself, Mr. Okullo you got this.

I prepared my research questions well and gained back my lost confidence.

The evening before, I stood in front of my dressing mirror and started asking my reflection the questions that I intended to ask the person I was going to collect the data from.

This helped me a lot in removing potential stage fright. I was ready.

In the morning, I got the contact information of the person to be interviewed, made contact with him, and he said I could go interview him.

I said yes!

This time, I will hit the iron while its still hot. That is what I felt. I was very relaxed.

Needless to say, the interview was very productive and I felt successful. 

The Author, Okullo Boniface, Research Change Agent, is a beneficiary of the Dr. Paul Hargrave Memorial Centre Human Development Project, jointly implemented by CPAR Uganda and Canadian Physicians for Aid and Relief. CLICK HERE to read more about him.