Advantages of using Non-participant observation

Question 1

Ethical (DRIPP):
Overt non-participant observation has ethical advantages, such as no deception, the ability for the group to withdraw, informed consent, and protection from harm, as the researcher observes from a distance, minimizing emotional or psychological risks.

Answer 1

AO3 (Linked Disadvantage):
However, overt observation may lead to the Hawthorne Effect, where the group changes their behavior because they know they are being observed, which reduces the validity of the findings.

Question 2

Theoretical:
Quantitative data is collected using a checklist of behavior categories, with the researcher tallying observed behaviors that match these categories. This approach is advantageous for positivists as it allows for statistical analysis to identify patterns and trends.

Answer 2

AO3 (Linked Disadvantage):
However, interpretivists argue that this method imposes the researcher’s worldview by forcing behavior into predefined categories, potentially missing behaviors that don’t fit. Additionally, it fails to uncover the meanings behind actions, such as why students might be on their phones.

Question 3

Theoretical:
Non-participant observation increases objectivity as the researcher observes from a distance without influencing the group’s behavior. This detachment eliminates the risk of “going native” and bias, making it an advantage for positivists, as the observations remain objective and behavior is categorized without personal involvement.

Answer 3

AO3 (Linked Disadvantage):
However, interpretivists argue that detachment limits the ability to gain verstehen. Without involvement, the researcher cannot build rapport or develop an empathetic understanding of the group, missing deeper insights into the group’s perspective.

Question 4

Reliability:
Non-participant observations are standardized, making them replicable by using the same behavior categories and observation conditions each time. This is advantageous for positivists, as consistent findings across repeated studies allow for the establishment of social facts.

Answer 4

AO3 (Linked Disadvantage):
However, reliability can lead to imposing the same behavior categories on every group, which may cause misinterpretations. Observers might incorrectly categorize behavior, such as recording a student on their phone without realizing they were using it for studying, leading to inaccurate data.