Non-experimental methods

Question 1

Participant Observation

Answer 1

A research method where the researcher takes on the role of a participant whilst observing other participants’ behaviour around them.

Question 2

Overt Observation

Answer 2

A research method where those being observed are aware of the fact.

Question 3

Non-Participant Observation

Answer 3

A research method where the researcher watches and records participants’ behaviour without interfering in any way (from a distance).

Question 4

Covert Observation

Answer 4

A research method where the researcher is “undercover”; the participants are unaware that they are being observed

Question 5

Naturalistic observation

Answer 5

A research method where where behaviour is observed in real-world settings.

Question 6

Controlled observation

Answer 6

A research method where researchers conduct observations of participants in a controlled environment.

Question 7

Structured observation

Answer 7

A research method where researchers observe behaviour in a systematic way (behavioural categories/tally)

Question 8

Unstructured observation

Answer 8

A research method where behaviour is observed more informally (no checklist)

Question 9

Questionnaire

Answer 9

A research method that includes a list of written questions, which generate closed and/or open answers. These can be used in person, on-line or through other methods

Question 10

Structured interview

Answer 10

A research method that includes standardised questions (like in a questionnaire), which are known as an interview schedule, and are usually asked face to face.

Question 11

Semi-structured interview

Answer 11

A research method which involves asking participants questions, usually face to face. These can be in the form of an interview schedule, but could also include follow up questions to expand on answers of the questions asked.

Question 12

Unstructured interview

Answer 12

A research method which involves asking participants questions, usually face to face. This may start with an opening question, but the interviewer will pose further questions based on the response of the interviewee

Question 13

Content analysis

Answer 13

A research method which involves exploration of behaviour to see what categories, codes or themes emerge, and tallying each time material fits a theme.

Question 14

Case study

Answer 14

A method which involves an in-depth investigation of a phenomenon, which uses a descriptive analysis of a person, group or event. It is a holistic study through one or more methodologies that is usually longitudinal.

Question 15

Self-report

Answer 15

A method which involves a participant reporting on their own thoughts and feelings though methods such as interviews or questionnaires.

Question 16

Co-variables

Answer 16

Co-variables indicate two or more quantities being measured in a correlation by the researcher that may or may not vary with each other.

Question 17

Correlation

Answer 17

A research method which involves a comparing two continuous variables (co-variables) to see if there is an association/relationship between them.

Question 18

Open Question

Answer 18

Questions that require elaboration from the participant

Question 19

Closed Question

Answer 19

Questions with a fixed response

Question 20

Cross-sectional studies

Answer 20

A method which involves comparing one group of participants, representing a cross-section of society, against another at the same point in time.

Question 21

Longitudinal studies

Answer 21

A method which involves conducting research over a long period of time in order to observe long-term effects of X on a specific behaviour. It may utilise a range of other methodologies such as case studies, interviews etc.