HOC7 : Observation

Question 1

what is observation

Answer 1

method to collect data on actions and behaviors in a field

Question 2

what is a field

Answer 2

= a natural environment or a lab setting

Question 3

when is observation best suited

Answer 3

to examine data without directly asking respondents themselves , or to collect data without obtrusion

Question 4

what are the 5 observation steps

Answer 4

1. Observe
2. Record
3. Nte
4. Analyse
5. Interpret and explain

Question 5

approach is scientific when observation is :

Answer 5

• is conducted specifically to answer a research question
• proves a reliable and valid account of what happened

Question 6

explain the meaning of a reliable observation

Answer 6

observation are consistent -> various observers obtain the same results

Question 7

explain the meaning of valid observation

Answer 7

observations accurately record actions or behavior of interest

Question 8

what are the 2 different types of sampling

Answer 8

non-probability sampling
probability sampling

Question 9

explain what is meant by non-probability sampling

Answer 9

further split into :
* convenience sampling = choosing those subjects and situations that are most easily accessible -> often the only option
* snowball sampling = asking participants to seek potential participants in their network

Question 10

explain what is meant by probability sampling

Answer 10

-> exceptional
-> for structured observation , large samples

Question 11

there are differences in the way structured observation and participant observation is conducted explain what each term means

Answer 11

-> structured observation : observer observes :
* from a distance
occurrences of pre-defined events
-> participant observation : observer :
* is involved to a certain extent in activities of people being studied
* captures whole event

Question 12

what is the difference between direct and indirect observation

Answer 12

Direct Observation:
- The observer is physically present, actively monitoring events. This method is flexible but carries a risk of bias due to observer overload or fatigue, potentially impacting accuracy and completeness.

Indirect Observation:
- Recording is done through mechanical or electronic devices such as cameras or videos. While less flexible, it offers a permanent record that can be reanalyzed from various perspectives, providing greater accuracy and completeness with reduced bias.

Question 13

what is the difference between concealed and unconcealed observation

Answer 13

Concealed Observation:
- Participants are unaware that they are being studied. Tools like videotaping and hidden cameras are used to reduce reactivity bias and preserve the validity of observations. However, ethical considerations require careful assessment of potential harm.

Unconcealed Observation:
- Participants are aware that they are being observed. This may lead to reactivity, influencing behavior and introducing bias due to participants’ awareness of the observer. An example is the ‘Hawthorne effect,’ where observation itself affects behavior.

Question 14

what is the difference between controlled and uncontrolled observation

Answer 14

Controlled Observation:
- Conducted in an artificial or contrived setting where the researcher manipulates the environment. Examples include exposing subjects (such as children) to specific situations (like toys) in a laboratory.

Uncontrolled Observation:
- Takes place in a natural setting without manipulation by the researcher. Examples include observing subjects in a store or classroom without controlled environmental conditions.

Question 15

what is a checklist

Answer 15

• measurement instrument
• memory aid
• similar to interview guide or questionnaire , but for observation studies

Question 16

what is a coding scheme

Answer 16

• Predetermined (precoded) categories used to simplify the recording and analysis of observed data, ensuring a high degree of precision. Useful for testing hypotheses on large samples. The coding scheme is tailored based on the research question(s), and a pilot study is often helpful to refine its requirements.
• Requirements:
  
  • Clear focus on what is to be observed.
  • Objective observability of events, actions, or behavior.
  • Easy to use.
  • Categories must be mutually exclusive (no overlap) and exhaustive.
  • Each category should have a distinct and workable name (e.g., sit, stand).

Question 17

what are the different degrees of participation by observer

Answer 17

• passive : no integral part ( outsider) - ex: sitting in the corner and watching
• moderate : no active participation , occasional interaction with social group
• active : observer engages in almost everything to learn about behavior
• complete : ‘immersion’ in the social group → ex: joining as an employee to observe group dynamics as an insider

Question 18

what are the characteristics of good field notes

Answer 18

• Timing: Noted or recorded during observation.
• Completeness: Write full notes immediately after observation to ensure completeness for later understanding.
• Precision: Use exact quotes when possible.
• Confidentiality: Protect confidentiality by using pseudonyms.
• Chronology: Describe activities in the order in which they occur.
• Objectivity: Notes should provide objective descriptions; interpretations come later.
• Context: Include relevant background information to situate the event.
• Documentation: Record date, time, place, and the name of the researcher on each set of notes.

Question 19

what are the advantages of observation

Answer 19

• Effective when subjects cannot adequately articulate themselves (e.g., children).
• Data collected at the time it occurs, reducing retrospective bias.
• Observer does not depend on others’ inputs; no questioning reduces respondent bias.
• Less demanding for participants compared to interviewing or questioning.
• Observer collects data that respondents might ignore or not be aware of (e.g., non-verbal cues).
• Appropriate for observing whole events in a natural environment.
• Provides insight into dynamic phenomena such as negotiation processes and decision-making.

Question 20

what are the disadvantages of observation

Answer 20

• Observer must be present at the scene or follow recording.
• Slow, time-consuming, and expensive process.
• Less suitable for learning about the past or cause-and-effect relationships.
• In direct observation, observer drift may occur, leading to reduced accuracy and measurement errors.
• In participant observation, there is a risk of observer bias, and the researcher may lose objectivity.
• Abstract elements (opinions, values, preferences) are challenging to observe, requiring additional methods.
• Respondents may change behavior due to awareness of being observed, leading to reactivity bias.
• Concealed observation (e.g., through cameras) raises ethical concerns.