Final answer:
The first basic stage of field research is called the preliminary survey, where researchers conduct initial explorations of the site or population of interest to structure their research efforts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first basic stage of field research is typically known as the preliminary survey or exploration stage. In this stage, researchers conduct initial assessments to gather general information about the site or population of interest. This might involve methods such as walking across a potential archaeological site, using technologies like drones for initial exploration, or conducting informal interviews to understand the broader context of the research topic.
During the survey stage, the goal is to structure the main research efforts, decide on the specific methods of data collection, and establish a clear focus for the observation or experimentation that will follow. For example, in archaeology, a survey often includes looking for surface artifacts or signs of cultural debris that indicate a site's potential for more detailed study.