Research Methodology
Pilot Study
A small-scale preliminary study conducted in order to evaluate feasibility, time, cost, adverse events, and improve upon the study design.
What is Pilot Study?
A pilot study is a trial run done in preparation for the complete, major study. It involves testing the research instruments, recruitment strategies, and experimental procedures on a small sample to identify potential problems.
Why Pilot Study Matters
It prevents researchers from wasting significant time and money on a full-scale study that is fundamentally flawed due to logistical or methodological errors.
Example
Before launching a national survey on mental health, researchers test the questionnaire on 30 people to see if any questions are confusing or offensive.
Common Mistakes
- Using the data from the pilot study to test hypotheses or calculate statistical significance.
- Assuming that because a pilot study succeeded, the full-scale study will automatically run perfectly.