Observational techniques Flashcards

1
Q

what happens in a naturalistic observation?

A

the researcher watches and records behaviour in the setting which it would normally occur.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q

what happens during a controlled observation?

A

the researcher watches and records behaviour within a structured environment. Where some variables are controlled.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q

What is a covert observation?

A

When a participants behaviour is observed and recorded without their knowledge or consent

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
4
Q

what is an overt observation?

A

when a participant is being watched and recorded with their knowledge and consent

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
5
Q

what does a researcher do in a participant observation?

A

They become a member of the group whose behaviour they are recording

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
6
Q

what does a researcher do in a Non-participant observation?

A

they remain outside of the group whose behaviour they are watching/recording

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
7
Q

what are the strengths and weaknesses of a naturalistic observation?

A

S:
-high external validity, meaning findings can often be generalised to everyday life.

W:
-lack of control over research situation, makes replication difficult
-confounding/extran variables so more difficult to judge pattern of behaviour.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
8
Q

what are the strengths and weaknesses of a controlled observation?

A

S:
–replication is easier as there are less confounding/extran variables are less of a factor.

W:
–Findings cant be easily applied to everyday life.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
9
Q

what are the strengths and weaknesses of an Overt observation?

A

S:
–more ethically acceptable.
W:
-knowledge of observation may lead to D.C’s which influence behaviour and lower internal validity

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
10
Q

what are the strengths and weaknesses of a covert observation?

A

S:
-Removes demand characteristics, behaviour is natural ]
-increases internal validity

W:
-unethical as participants are unaware and may not want to be recorded/watched

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
11
Q

what are the strengths and weaknesses of a participant observation?

A

S:
-researcher experiences situation as the participants do which gives an insight into lives of people being studied
-higher external validity of findings

W:
-researcher may identify too strongly with what they’re studying and lose objectivity.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
12
Q

what are the strengths and weaknesses of a onn-participant observation?

A

S:
-objective psychological distance from participants, less danger of adopting to the local lifestyle.

W:
-Lose valuable insight to be gained in a participant obs, as they’re removed from the people they are studying.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly