Research Methods: Observations

Question 1

What is an observation

Answer 1

-An observation is when you watch or notice something carefully in order to gain information.

Question 2

What are the types of observation

Answer 2

-Non participant
-Participant
-Covert
-Overt

Question 3

What are the different designs of observations

Answer 3

-Structured
-Unstructued

Question 4

What is a non participant observation

Answer 4

-When the researcher simply watches the group without taking an active part in the activities of the group. (The researcher doesnt get involved)

Question 5

What is a participant observation

Answer 5

-Where the researcher plays an active role in the group they are researching. They become part of the group they are studying. (Researcher joins in with the group)

Question 6

What is a covert observation

Answer 6

-Where the researcher goes undercover and the people being observed are not aware of it. (E.g using a camera or two way mirror)

Question 7

What is an overt observation

Answer 7

-Where the researcher makes the participants aware that they are being observed

Question 8

What is a structured observation

Answer 8

-Where the researcher is looking and recording specific behaviours (generally collects quantitative data)

Question 9

What is an unstructured observation

Answer 9

-When the researcher just observes the groups and draws conclusions from what they see (generally collects qualitative data)

Question 10

Examples of Participant observations

Answer 10

-James Patrick- ‘A Glasgow gang’- (covert)
-Venkatesh- ‘Gang leader for a day’
-Griffin- ‘Black like me’

Question 11

Patrick’s ‘A Glasgow Gang’ participant observation study

Answer 11

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