covert and overt observations

Question 1

ethical

Answer 1

Overt observation is a more ethically sound approach as the observer gains informed consent of those participating and is not deceiving the participants

Whereas covert observation deceive the group being studied, people have not given consent and therefore the method is not moral

As well as this, undertaking covert observation may mean the researcher may suffer physical or mental harm due to this. Staying in a situation may be stressful and dangerous if you don’t have permission from the group, this can lead to becoming involved in illegal activities which may be difficult to get out of

Question 2

validity

Answer 2

Under an overt observation the results are more likely to be valid, aware you are researching them and are able to make notes and record the ongoings
However, this is not possible with a covert observation as the activity would seem suspicious and therefore this shows that the overt observation is more advantageous