päiväkiratutkimukset

Päiväkirjatutkimukset, often translated as diary studies or experience sampling methods, are a research technique used in qualitative and quantitative research to gather data from participants over a period of time. Participants are asked to keep a diary or log, recording specific information related to a phenomenon of interest. This data can range from personal experiences, emotions, and behaviors to usage patterns of a product or service, or the occurrence of specific events.

The primary advantage of diary studies is their ability to capture data in real-time, as events unfold, thereby reducing recall bias. Participants record their experiences in their natural environment, providing rich, contextual information. This method is particularly useful for studying longitudinal processes, changes in behavior, or subjective experiences that might be difficult to recall accurately in a single interview or survey.

Data collection in diary studies can be done through various means, including traditional paper-and-pencil diaries, digital apps, or even voice recordings. The prompts or questions within the diary can be pre-defined or open-ended, depending on the research objectives. The duration of a diary study can vary from a few days to several months.

Analysis of diary study data typically involves thematic analysis for qualitative entries or statistical analysis for quantitative data. Researchers often look for patterns, trends, and individual variations within the collected entries. Diary studies are employed across various disciplines, including psychology, sociology, human-computer interaction, and marketing, to gain deep insights into participant experiences.