How to Cite Field Notes MLA
Field notes are an essential component of qualitative research, providing researchers with a detailed account of their observations and experiences in the field. When writing a research paper or thesis, it is crucial to properly cite field notes to give credit to the sources and to ensure academic integrity. In MLA (Modern Language Association) citation style, there are specific guidelines for citing field notes. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on how to cite field notes in MLA format.
1. Citing Field Notes in the Text
When citing field notes in the text, you should include the author’s last name and the page number where the information is found. For example:
> According to my field notes, participants expressed a strong preference for the new program (Smith 23).
If the author’s name is not mentioned in the text, you can include it in parentheses after the quote:
> The new program was well-received by participants (Smith).
2. Citing Field Notes in the Works Cited List
To cite field notes in the Works Cited list, you need to provide the author’s name, the title of the field notes, the date of the fieldwork, and the location of the field notes. Here is an example:
> Smith, John. “Observations of the New Program.” Field Notes, March 1, 2020, Location.
If the field notes are part of a larger collection or publication, include the title of the collection or publication and the editor’s name:
> Smith, John. “Observations of the New Program.” In Field Research Methods, edited by Jane Doe, 45-56. New York: XYZ Publishing, 2020.
3. Citing Annotated Field Notes
If you have annotated your field notes, you should include the annotation in the Works Cited list. Annotated field notes are field notes that have been reviewed and summarized by the researcher. Here is an example:
> Smith, John. “Observations of the New Program.” Field Notes, March 1, 2020, Location. Annotated by Jane Doe, April 1, 2020.
4. Citing Field Notes in a Secondary Source
If you are citing field notes from a secondary source, such as a book or article, you should include the author of the secondary source in the text and in the Works Cited list. Here is an example:
> According to Smith’s field notes (as cited in Doe 45), participants expressed a strong preference for the new program.
In the Works Cited list, include the author of the secondary source:
> Doe, Jane. “Qualitative Research Methods.” Book Title, 2020.
5. Citing Online Field Notes
When citing online field notes, include the author’s name, the title of the field notes, the URL, and the date of access. Here is an example:
> Smith, John. “Observations of the New Program.” Field Notes, March 1, 2020. https://www.example.com/fieldnotes, accessed March 15, 2020.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your field notes are properly cited in MLA format. Proper citation not only gives credit to the sources but also helps maintain the integrity of your research.
