Ecological Momentary Assessment
Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) is a research method used to collect data in real-time from participants in their natural environments. It involves prompting individuals to report on their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors at various moments throughout the day, often using mobile devices. This approach helps researchers gather accurate and immediate information, reducing recall bias that can occur in traditional surveys.
EMA is particularly useful in fields like psychology, public health, and behavioral science. By capturing data in the moment, researchers can better understand how daily experiences and contexts influence individual behavior and well-being, leading to more effective interventions and insights.