RESEARCH METHODS: Types of observation Flashcards
what is an observation?
can be a research method or a part of an experiment = therefore it is a RESEARCH TECHNIQUE
- it is a non-experimental technique as there is no manipulations of IVs
- the researcher attempts to record all the behaviours that they observe from the participants
what is naturalistic observation?
Watching and recording behaviour in the setting within which it would normally occur. Observations can take place in natural situation.
what are controlled observations?
Watching and recording behaviour within a structured environment. Observations can take place where some variables are controlled and manipulated by the experimenter.
what are participant observations?
The observer acts as part of the group being watched. He/she is watching and recording.
What are non-participant observations?
The experimenter does not become part of the group being observed.
what are covert observations?
The observer is undercover and does not let people know they are conducting an observation. They observe in secret (covertly). This must occur in public if the observation is to be ethical.
What are overt observations?
The experimenter can be seen by participants and has possibly obtained their consent. Informed consent is given beforehand.
Evaluate observation in general?
+ benefit of capturing what people do.They give special insight to behaviour
- there may be observer bias- an observers interpretation of a situation may be affected by their expectations.
How to avoid this: this may be reduced by using more than one observer
Evaluate naturalistic observation?
+ high external validity - findings can be generalised to everyday life as behaviour is studied within the environment where it would normally occur.
- lack of control of the research situation which makes the replication of the investigation difficult due to many uncontrolled confounding/extraneous variables that make it more difficult to judge any pattern of behaviour.
Evaluate controlled observation?
+ controlled observations make confounding/extraneous variables less of a factor so observation becomes easier.
-controlled observations may produce findings that cannot be readily apply to every day life.
Evaluate Covert observation?
+ problems of demand characteristics are removed and ensures that any behaviour observed is natural. This increases internal validity of the data gathered.
-maybe unethical as people may not want their behaviours noted down.
evaluate overt observation?
+ more ethically acceptable as there is informed consent
-participants knowing that they are being observed may act as significant influence on their behaviour therefore there are demand characteristics.
evaluate participant observation?
+ researcher can experience the situation as the participants do, giving them an increased insight of the people being studied. This increases external validity.
-researcher may come to identify too strongly with those they are studying and lose objectivity. The line between the researcher and participant becomes blurred.
evaluate non-participant observation?
+ allows the researcher to maintain an objective. There is a psychological distance from the participant so there is less danger of them adopting a local lifestyle.
-may lose their valuable insight to be gained in a participant observation.
