Baselinetutkimus

Baselinetutkimus, often translated as baseline study or baseline research, refers to a research project conducted at the beginning of an initiative or intervention to establish a starting point. This initial data collection serves as a reference against which future changes or outcomes can be measured and compared. The primary purpose of a baselinetutkimus is to understand the existing conditions, characteristics, or status of a particular subject, population, or environment before any specific action is taken.

This type of research is crucial for evaluating the effectiveness of interventions, policies, or programs. By knowing the baseline, researchers and stakeholders can determine whether the subsequent changes are a result of the intervention itself or other external factors. Baselinetutkimus can encompass a wide range of fields, including environmental science, public health, social sciences, and economics. For example, in environmental studies, a baseline might involve measuring air or water quality before a new factory is built. In public health, it could involve assessing the prevalence of a disease in a community before a health campaign is launched.

The data collected during a baselinetutkimus typically includes quantitative and qualitative information relevant to the research question. This might involve surveys, interviews, measurements, or observations. The rigor and scope of the baseline study depend on the objectives of the larger project. A well-designed baselinetutkimus provides a solid foundation for robust evaluation and informed decision-making.