tutkimuspäiväkirja

The term tutkimuspäiväkirja, literally "research diary" in Finnish, refers to a structured record in which researchers document the progress, thoughts, and observations related to a particular study or project. It serves as a living artifact that captures the evolving process of inquiry, from hypothesis formulation to data collection and analysis, as well as reflections on methodological decisions and unforeseen challenges.

Unlike a conventional lab notebook, a tutkimuspäiväkirja often includes narrative entries, sketches, preliminary data tables, and links to relevant literature. Many researchers use it to track time spent on tasks, maintain a log of experiments, and note emergent ideas that may not yet fit into formal reports. In humanities and social sciences, the diary may also record fieldwork details, ethical considerations, and interview content, with anonymised quotes to maintain confidentiality. Some institutions provide digital templates that prompt entries on specific facets such as goals, outcomes, and next steps.

The practice offers several benefits. It enhances research transparency, aids in self‑reflection, and supports progression toward publishable results by providing a chronological trail of decisions. Educators sometimes require students to maintain a tutkimuspäiväkirja to develop critical thinking and project‑management skills. Furthermore, the diary can serve as a resource during peer review, grant applications, and interdisciplinary collaborations by offering an accessible overview of a project's trajectory.

Overall, the tutkimuspäiväkirja functions as a flexible, reflective tool that complements formal research documentation, fostering rigorous, accountable, and adaptive scholarship.