How to Cite Field Notes in APA
Field notes are an essential component of qualitative research, providing researchers with a detailed account of their observations, interviews, and interactions in the field. Proper citation of field notes is crucial for maintaining academic integrity and giving credit to the sources. In APA (American Psychological Association) style, citing field notes involves a specific format that researchers should follow. This article will guide you through the process of how to cite field notes in APA.
1. Citing a Single Field Note
When citing a single field note, include the author’s name, the date of the field note, and the page number where the information is found. For example:
Smith, J. (2020). Field notes from the XYZ project (p. 5).
If the field note is part of a larger collection, mention the collection name and the page number. For instance:
Smith, J. (2020). Field notes from the XYZ project [in The field research collection]. (p. 5).
2. Citing Multiple Field Notes
When citing multiple field notes, list them in alphabetical order by the author’s last name. Separate each entry with a semicolon and include the page numbers where the information is found. For example:
Smith, J. (2020). Field notes from the XYZ project (p. 5).
Johnson, L. (2019). Field notes from the ABC project (p. 8).
Williams, M. (2018). Field notes from the DEF project (p. 12).
3. Citing a Field Note in the Text
When referencing a field note in the text, use the author’s last name and the year of the field note. For example:
According to Smith (2020), the participants in the XYZ project displayed a strong sense of community (p. 5).
4. Citing a Field Note in a Reference List
When including a field note in the reference list, follow the APA format:
Smith, J. (2020). Field notes from the XYZ project. [Unpublished field notes]. Name of Institution or Organization.
5. Citing a Field Note in a Thesis or Dissertation
When citing a field note in a thesis or dissertation, include the author’s name, the date of the field note, and the page number where the information is found. For example:
Smith, J. (2020). Field notes from the XYZ project (p. 5).
Remember to consult your institution’s guidelines for any specific requirements regarding the citation of field notes in your thesis or dissertation.
In conclusion, citing field notes in APA style is essential for maintaining academic integrity and giving credit to the sources. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, researchers can ensure that their field notes are properly cited and contribute to the credibility of their work.
