pilot studies

what is a pilot study

• A small-scale, trial version of an investigation conducted before the main study.

• It helps researchers test procedures, materials, and methods to identify potential problems.

• Can be applied to experiments, observations, self-reports (questionnaires/interviews), and correlations.

Aims of a pilot study

• The main purpose is to ensure the full study will run smoothly and yield valid, reliable data.
  Specifically, pilot studies aim to:

• Check for practical issues

  • Are the instructions clear and understandable?

  • Do participants know what to do?

  • Is the equipment functioning properly?

  • Does the timing work (too long/short)?

• Assess the design and materials

  • Are the questions in a questionnaire/interview appropriate and unambiguous?

  • Are the stimuli (e.g. images, words, sounds) suitable for the intended purpose?

  • Are the tasks too easy or too difficult?

  • Are the variables operationalized effectively?

• Identify and correct methodological issues

  • Check for confounding variables.

  • Ensure the procedure is standardized.

  • Identify any ethical issues (e.g., distress, deception).

• Refine procedures before the main study

  • Adjust or remove problematic elements.

  • Modify instructions, timings, or equipment.

  • Improve the overall validity and reliability of the main investigation.

what happens after a pilot study

• Researchers analyse feedback and make changes to the procedure.

• If major issues are found, they redesign the study.

• Once the design is refined, they proceed with the full-scale study.

example

A psychologist is developing a memory test. They run a pilot study with 10 participants to:

• See if the instructions are clear.

• Check if the word list is too easy or too hard.

• Time how long the test takes.

If participants find the instructions confusing, the psychologist rewrites them before conducting the main study.