Methods In Context (Structured Observation In Education)

Question 1

What are the ‘Practical Issues’ using structured observation in education?

Answer 1

• Classroom is well suited to SO
• Time efficient
• Cheaper + require less training
• Too many variables to monitor

Question 2

How ‘Reliable’ are structured interviews in education?

Answer 2

• Easy to replicate classroom observations

- Generates categories which ignores the meanings attached

Question 3

How ‘Valid’ are structured observation in education?

Answer 3

Counting classroom behaviour + classifying it into limited number of categories ignores the meanings attached

Question 4

How does ‘Observer Presence’ impact structured observation?

Answer 4

• Presence of stranger can be off-putting in a school

- Impression management