A pilot study
It is a small-scale version of the intended main research study, including all the subcomponents that make up the main study, including the data collection and analysis from about 50 to 100 participants that are representative of the main study’s target population.They are most often associated with empirical descriptive or predictive quantitative research studies.
A pilot study refers to a small-scale research study that is conducted before a bigger, more comprehensive study is carried out. A pilot study is typically designed to test the various aspects of the research methodology and identify any potential areas of concern, such as the suitability of the research instrument, the adequacy of the data analysis software used and the feasibility of the time and budget allotted for the full-scale study.
The aim of a pilot study is to evaluate the research methodology and identify any gaps or limitations that need to be addressed before embarking on the actual study. Pilot studies may also be used to test the hypothesis and determine the sample size required, and can also provide valuable feedback from participants and study investigators, which can be used to improve the research methodology of the full-scale study.
Overall, carrying out a pilot study before conducting a full-scale study can help to ensure that the research methodology is robust, that the study is feasible within the constraints of time and budget, and that the results of the study are as accurate and reliable as possible.
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