Pilot study
Definition and synonyms:
Another synonyms for pilot study is : experimental exploratory, test, preliminary, trial or try out
investigation.
The definition of pilot study in the dictionary” is a small-scale experiment or set of observations
undertaken to decide how and whether to launch a full-scale project”. It can also be defined as a
‘small study to test research protocols, data collection instruments, sample recruitment strategies,
and other research techniques in preparation for a larger study.
Pilot study is carried out before a research design is finalized to ask whether something can be
done, should the researchers continue with it, and if so, how to obtain high-quality outcomes.
However, a pilot study also has a particular design feature; it is performed on a smaller scale than
the main. A pilot study is performed either as an external pilot study independent of the main
study or as an internal pilot study included in the research design of the main study.
The objectives of Pilot study is
1. To help in defining the research question and to reveal errors in the design and to refine
it before the final test.
2. To test the feasibility, reliability & validity of the proposed study design.
( to test the plan & method of a research study) recognizing potential problems and
deficiencies in the research instruments and protocol.
3. To increase the researcher team experience by making them aware with the procedures
in the protocol, and can help them in the selection of best research method
( for example decide between two competing study methods, such as using interviews
rather than a self-administered questionnaire.
4. To assess the safety of treatment or interventions and recruitment potentials, examine the
randomization and blinding process, and
5. Sample size calculation
One of the key reasons why a pilot study is needed is to obtain the required preliminary
data for the calculation of a sample size for the primary outcome
6. Selection of the most appropriate primary outcome
measure because it is not easy to select the primary outcome that best reflects
the intentions of the researchers.
7. Minimizing the researchers and participants from wasting effort and research resources.
Result of a pilot study
1. Termination of the study (cannot proceed with the main study
2. Can proceed with the main study after modifying the study design
3. Not necessary to modify the study design, but requires thorough monitoring throughout
the study procedures.
4. Can proceed without modifying the study design.
Summary
A pilot study provides necessary information not only for calculating the sample size, but also
for assessment of all other aspects of the main study, In order for the pilot study to play its role, it
must be performed with high level of completion.
In addition, a pilot study provides useful evidence not only for the main thesis of the researcher,
but also for other related studies; it is therefore important to provide complete information about
the pilot study.
References
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Junyong I. Introduction of a Pilot Study. Korean J Anesthesiol [Internet]. 2017;70(6):601–5.
Available from: https://doi.org/10.4097/kjae.2017.70.6.601
Hassan ZA, Schattner P, Mazza D. Doing A Pilot Study: Why Is It Essential? Malaysian Fam
physician Off J Acad Fam Physicians Malaysia [Internet]. 2006;1(2–3):70–3. Available from:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27570591%0Ahttp://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/a
rticlerender.fcgi?artid=PMC4453116
Abu Hassan Z, Schattner P, Mazza D, Keluarga K, Lumpur K. Research Notes DOING A PILOT
STUDY: WHY IS IT ESSENTIAL? Malaysian Fam Physician. 2006;1(3):170–3.
van Teijlingen E, Hundley V. The importance of pilot studies. Nurs Stand. 2002;16(40):33–6.