Covert And Overt Onservations

Question 1

Overt

Answer 1

The researcher makes their purpose and identity known to the group

Question 2

Covert

Answer 2

Researcher does not make their purpose or identity known to the group

Question 3

Example of overt

Answer 3

Ofsted inspector might observe behaviour and teaching standards (but we are aware they are assessing)

Question 4

Covert

Answer 4

Any form of undercover worker

Question 5

Overt advantages

Answer 5

Avoids ehtical problems
Can ask more questions without being sussed our
Notes can be taken openly and freely

Question 6

Disadvantages of overt

Answer 6

Risk of Hawthorne effect ruining results

Possibility of refusal/ rejection

Question 7

Covert advantages

Answer 7

Reduces effect of Hawthorne effect

Easier to gain access to certain groups

Question 8

Disadvantages of covert

Answer 8

Must be able to remain in the act
Cannot take notes freely and openly
Cannot ask certain questions

Question 9

Non participant observations

Answer 9

Groups observed without researcher taking part eg observing children playing through a two way mirror

Question 10

Participant observations

Answer 10

Researcher joint the group and takes part in their activities. Weber called this approach ‘Verstehen’ seeing the world through the eyes of the individual actor

Question 11

In observation the researcher might

Answer 11

Use an observation schedule this can be unstructured or semi structured