kenttätieteellinen

Kenttätieteellinen is a Finnish adjective that translates to "field scientific" or "field-based scientific" in English. It refers to research or study conducted in the natural environment or in the actual location where a phenomenon occurs, rather than in a laboratory or controlled setting. This approach is fundamental to many scientific disciplines, including biology, geology, archaeology, sociology, and geography.

When research is described as kenttätieteellinen, it implies that data is collected directly from its source. For example, a biologist might conduct kenttätieteellinen research by observing animal behavior in its natural habitat, collecting plant samples from a forest, or studying soil composition in a specific area. An archaeologist employing kenttätieteellinen methods would excavate a site to uncover artifacts and understand past human activity. Sociologists might use kenttätieteellinen techniques like participant observation to study communities in their everyday settings.

The emphasis in kenttätieteellinen work is on real-world conditions, which can be highly variable and complex. This often requires researchers to adapt their methods and tools to suit the specific environment and the challenges it presents. While laboratory experiments allow for precise control over variables, field research offers insights into natural processes and interactions that cannot be replicated indoors. The findings from kenttätieteellinen studies are crucial for understanding the complexities of our world and for developing effective conservation, management, and societal strategies.