Binder notes are sometimes called field notes or interview notes in different types of research.
Binder notes record the setting and context in which the interview or observation took place, as well as the conversation that took place and any relevant observations. Field notes may also include transcriptions of interviews, reflections and interpretations if it is qualitative research, or raw, unprocessed data to be coded if the methodology is quantitative or mixed-method.
This type of note is often used in qualitative research, where the researcher is trying to understand the perspectives and experiences of the people they are studying.
Binder notes can be used to record:
- Details of the interview or observation, such as the date, time, location, and participants.
- Descriptions of the participants, including their appearance, behavior, and any other relevant information.
- The main points of the conversation or observation.
- Any questions or comments that the researcher had during the interview or observation.
- Any impressions or feelings that the researcher had during or after the interview or observation.
- An interpretation or analysis of the interview or observation.
Binder notes are an important tool for qualitative researchers because they allow the researcher to capture the rich detail and context of their research. They can also help the researcher to identify patterns and themes in their data, and to develop a deeper understanding of the people they are studying.
Binder notes can also be used to jog a researcher's memory of the interview or observation, and when combined with other notes and data sources like questionnaires, documents, surveys and other observations, allow the researcher to present a richer and more nuanced picture of the research participants and the research project as a whole.