Blog Post #9: Field Research Reflections

As I conclude my field research project, I have a few thoughts on how the project was conducted and notes for future studies.

Successes:

1. Established multiple predictor variables of Chloroflexus aurantiacus growth that were statistically significant.
2. Created an efficient and accurate sampling method that allowed me to use data sets in multiple ways. The thresholding process also turned a categorical variable into a continuous variable that opened the door to different analysis techniques.
3. Was able to create predictive models for bacterial growth in response to multiple variables.

Snags:

1. Though many predictor variables were found to have a statistically significant association with Chloroflexus aurantiacus growth, no primary predictor variables showed a high multiple R value. A possibility may be to use a multiple regression strategy for statistical analysis instead of a simple regression.
2. Having to sample variables in such different ways with simplistic equipment created the need for a different analysis of each variable, making data processing time-consuming and more difficult. In the future, I may consider aligning my measurement strategies for each variable to make sampling more efficient.
3. Using all sets of data as continuous data made validating independence difficult mathematically as I was unable to use a Chi-square test. There are methods of validating independence with this form of data but they require greater statistical capabilities than I possess. In future studies, I may consider the analysis methods required as I am selecting variables.

Overall, I enjoyed this field research project thoroughly and it has taught me a significant amount about conducting fieldwork. Specifically, the use of study design was a relatively new concept and having a hands-on project allowed me to see the repercussions of study design selection all the way through the research process. I also learned a great deal from doing the statistical analysis and the careful consideration that must go into preparing the data and interpreting the results properly. I believe I have learned a lot and am excited about future research projects!