Final answer:
A 'pilot study' is a small-scale preliminary study conducted to evaluate feasibility, time, cost, and adverse events, and improve upon the study design prior to performance of a full-scale research project.
Step-by-step explanation:
“Pilot studies” are small-scale studies conducted to identify the strengths and limitations of a planned larger-scale study. A pilot study is essential because it can help researchers refine their research design, methodology, and instruments before embarking on the full-scale research project. It serves to prevent potentially costly and time-consuming errors in the larger study.
When considering the various methods available to researchers, each approach, such as surveys, case studies, ethnographic field studies, and longitudinal research, comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The choice of method largely depends on the research question and the nature of the topic being studied. For instance, longitudinal research involves following a group of research participants for an extended period to notice changes over time, while cross-sectional studies collect data from a sample at one specific point in time.