3. Primary research methods: Observations

Question 1

What are observations

Answer 1

Observations involves the researcher watching a groups behaviour in their usual settings.
There are 2 types of observations: Participant and non-participant

They can also be used openly (overtly) or secretly (covertly).

This method involves a researcher immersing themselves into a group or culture and are sometimes termed ethnography

Question 2

What are ethnographic studies

Answer 2

Theyre often rich in descriptive detail whilst lacking quantitative data

Question 3

What are non-participant observations

Answer 3

This involves the researcher being in the group but not apart of it. It allows them to observe and count instances of behaviour that theyre interested in

If quantitative data is required this will preferred over participant observation.

Question 4

What are participant observations

Answer 4

Sociologists become a member of the group being studied, this is an example of ethnography.

The researcher takes part in the activities and is able to understand the social world from their point of view

Question 5

Advantages of covert participant observations

Answer 5

1. Allows them to study hard to reach groups, with detailed qualitative date being obtained
2. If group avoids hawthorne effect the datas valid
3. The data records what actually happens as the method doesnt rely on respondents answering honestly

Question 6

Problems of Covert participant observations

Answer 6

1. A practical problem is researchers have to rely on memory, interviewer bias
2. Its hard to gain access to hard to reach groups, they might use a gatekeeper to gain access but they might find it hard to behave normally
3. They cant draw attention to themselves
4. Covert research deals with ethical issues with consent
5. The researcher might ‘go native’ and want to identify with the group being studied

Question 7

Advantages of overt participant observations

Answer 7

1. The ethical issues of deception is resolved as they have consent
2. The researcher can openly ask questions without fear of giving cover away
3. They can take notes and dont have to rely on memory

Question 8

Disadvantages of Overt participant observations

Answer 8

1. Hawthrone effect is likely to happen as they are aware theyre being studied
2. Theres questions on how far the researcher should be involved

Question 9

Advantages of overt non-participation observations

Answer 9

1. Its easier to keep record of whats happening as group knows theyre being studied
2. Ethical issues of consent are resolved
3. The researcher can ask open questions without fear of giving cover away.
4. it allows both quantitative and qualitative data
5. Researcher is less likely to behave illegally

Question 10

Problems of overt non-participation observations

Answer 10

1. Hawthorne effect is likely to happen

2. By not fully joining in theyre not fully experiencing their life

Question 11

Problems of Observations in general

Answer 11

1. Theyre very dependent on the researcher so theyre very unique making it hard to replicate, so its not as reliable
2. It can be difficult for observer to remain detached and objective
3. How far can the data be generalised.