2 - Observational Techniques Flashcards
Define non-participant observation
Researcher does not get directly involved with the interactions of the participants
Define participant observation
Researcher is directly involved with the interactions of the participants
What is a naturalistic observation ?
Participants observed in their own environment
Deliberate manipulation of the independent variable
What are the advantages of naturalistic observation ?
Reduced demand characteristics
High mundane realism and ecological validity
Useful where deliberate manipulation of variables would be impractical or unethical
What are the disadvantages of naturalistic observation?
No control over EV
Hard to determine cause of behaviour as variables are not manipulated
Observer bias
What is a controlled observation?
Observed in a controlled environment
Manipulation of IV
What are the advantages of a controlled observation?
Cause and effect can be determine
EV can be controlled
Rich and complex information
What are the disadvantages of controlled observation?
Low ecological validity
Demand characteristics
Observer bias
