Master’s Series on Field Research
Interview with Professor Robert Rosenthal
Professor Emeritus, Harvard University
Introduction
Peter Blanck interviews Robert Rosenthal about his experiences as a field researcher. The interview begins with Rosenthal describing his first field research experience, the importance of establishing relationships, and the role of ethics. Rosenthal goes on to discuss controlling variables in the field, the use of statistical analysis, the need for research to be both reliable and valid, and the elements that make up good field research. Rosenthal briefly talks about how to learn the skills needed for a field researcher, how best to draw causal inferences, and some of the ways bias can enter and harm field research. The interview concludes with Rosenthal explaining how he presents his findings and what parts of field research bring him the most satisfaction.
Transcript File
Interview with Professor Robert Rosenthal -Transcript| Transcript (Text file)