Observational Techniques Flashcards
(19 cards)
what is meant by observation
A method of collecting information about behaviour by watching and recording people’s actions.
what is an naturalistic observation
Take place in a real life and natural environment where behaviour would normally occur
• There is no control over any aspects of the environment.
advantage of using naturalistic observation
High ecological validity- takes place in real life so can apply to other real world scenarios
disadvantage of naturalistic observation
- Less replicability (hard to repeat the same)
– no standardised procedure
describe controlled observation
- Takes place in an artificial environment
- Aspects of the environment are controlled to observe effects and reducing extraneous variables.
advantage of controlled observation
High replicability – standardised so easy to repeat
disadvantage of controlled observation
Low ecological validity –doesn’t take place in real life setting so hard to generalise
what is a covert observation
Participants are not aware that they are being observed.
- Behaviour is recorded without obtaining consent from the participants.
advantage of covert observation
Few demand characteristics – as participants are unaware they are being observed
disadvantage of covert observation
Ethical issues – deception / no consent
what is an overt observation
Participants know that they are being observed.
- Have given informed consent before hand
advantages of overt observation
No ethical issues – consent has been given
disadvantages of an overt observation
Demand characteristics- participants will behave differently to normal because they know they are being observed
What is a participant observation
The observer joins the group they are observing
What are the advantages of participant observation
More in depth and valid data- gives a better insight into participants
What is the disadvantage of participant observation
Lacks objectivity – researchers may form a bond with participants - leading to subjective conclusions
What is non participant observation
The observer remains separate from they people they are observing just records information without direct participation.
Advantage of non-participant observation
Easier to record data – data more valid/accurate
Disadvantage of non-participant observation
Less in depth- researcher may not be able to understand the reasons for even the subtle interactions and behaviours among participants.
