Observational Design/Technique

Question 1

What is a Naturalistic Observational Technique?

Answer 1

Takes place in the real work place the participants are likely to spend their time in such as school, work or in their own homes.

Question 2

What is a Controlled Observational Technique?

Answer 2

Aspects of the environment are controlled, in an attempt to give participants the same experience. This is often conducted in a laboratory setting.

Question 3

What is a Participant Observational Technique?

Answer 3

The researcher will join groups being observed and takes part in the group’s activities and conversations. May build more rapport but can also lose objectivity.

Question 4

What is a Non-Participant Observational Technique?

Answer 4

The researcher is separate from the participants recording observations without taking part in the group’s activities. The researcher is more likely to remain objective.

Question 5

What is a Covert Observation?

Answer 5

The participants cannot see the researcher, and can’t see someone taking notes / recording. This is more unethical, but are free from demand characteristics or social desirability bias.

Question 6

What is an Overt Observation?

Answer 6

The participants can see the researcher, and are aware their behaviour is being observed as part of the study. This may cause demand characteristics. This is ethical, which is a good thing.

Question 7

What is Operationalised behaviour Categories?

Answer 7

The behaviours need to be clearly identifiable and measurable. E.g. aggression = number of punches/kicks.

Question 8

What is Time Sampling?

Answer 8

Researcher records all relevant behaviour at set points, e.g. everything for 10 minutes.

Question 9

What is Event Sampling?

Answer 9

Researcher records/tallies every time a behaviour occurs from the list of operationalised behaviour categories.