Lesson 9: Writing Technical Reports (Survey, Scientific, and Field Reports) | EAPP

Summary

This video lesson discusses how to write technical reports, specifically survey, scientific, and field reports. It defines each report type and outlines their key components, such as methodology, results, and conclusions. Tips for creating effective survey questions are provided, emphasizing clarity and relevance. The video also details the observational techniques needed for field reports, highlighting the importance of documenting physical settings and cultural interactions. Overall, it serves as a comprehensive guide for students looking to enhance their academic writing skills.

Takeaways

• 😀 A survey report collects and presents data using a survey questionnaire, summarizing respondents' answers based on research objectives.
• 📋 When writing survey questions, keep them simple and direct to enhance clarity for respondents.
• 📊 Limit ranking options in surveys to a maximum of five to avoid overwhelming participants.
• ❓ Ensure multiple-choice questions cover all options without overlapping, allowing respondents to easily identify their preferred answer.
• 📄 The general structure of a survey report includes a title page, table of contents, executive summary, background, methodology, results, conclusions, and recommendations.
• 🔬 A scientific report is used to report experimental research and includes sections such as the title, abstract, introduction, materials and methods, results, discussion, and literature cited.
• 🌍 A field report documents observations made outside a laboratory, focusing on real-world settings and interactions.
• 🎥 Field reports can utilize various data-gathering techniques, including note-taking, video/audio recordings, and illustrations.
• 📝 It is essential to outline the report's purpose and methodology to ensure a focused and relevant analysis.
• ✅ Recommendations should be practical and actionable, providing clear guidance for the intended audience after reviewing the report.

Q & A

What are the three types of technical reports discussed in the video?

The three types of technical reports discussed are survey reports, scientific reports, and field reports.

What is the primary purpose of a survey report?

The primary purpose of a survey report is to collect data using a survey questionnaire and present the findings based on the conducted research.

What are some tips for writing effective survey questions?

Some tips include writing questions simply and directly, limiting ranking options to one to five, ensuring multiple-choice options are distinct and relevant, and providing an option for questions that do not apply to respondents.

What should be included in the general structure of a survey report?

A survey report should include a title page, table of contents, executive summary, background, methodology, results and findings, conclusions, recommendations, and a copy of the survey questionnaire.

What distinguishes a scientific report from other technical reports?

A scientific report is distinguished by its focus on reporting experimental research, including a thorough discussion of materials used, methods of experimentation, and results.

What components make up a scientific report?

A scientific report typically includes a title, abstract, introduction, materials and methods, results, discussion, and literature cited.

How does a field report differ from survey and scientific reports?

A field report differs in that it documents observations and data gathered outside of an office or laboratory setting, often involving real-time note-taking and observations of people, places, or events.

What are some techniques for gathering data in a field report?

Techniques for gathering data in a field report include taking notes, video and audio recordings, and using illustrations or graphic organizers.

What should a field report's introduction provide?

The introduction of a field report should provide background information and the rationale or purpose behind the study.

What are the recommended steps for writing a technical report?

Recommended steps include deciding the report's purpose, determining the methodology, collecting relevant information, deciding on the report structure, drafting the report, analyzing findings, making recommendations, and compiling a reference list.