Observation

Question 1

What are the 6 types of observation?

Answer 1

Non-participant
Participant
Structured
Unstructured
Covert
Overt

Question 2

3 stages of observation

Answer 2

Getting in
Staying in
Getting out

Question 3

Participant observation - advantages

Answer 3

Validity, Insider’s view, flexibility, some groups are closed to outsiders so only method sometimes

Question 4

Partipant observation - disadvantages

Answer 4

Potential loss of objectivity, Hawthorne Effect, going native, replication, lacks representativeness & reliability, safety of researcher, personal characteristics, no informed consent, guilty knowledge

Question 5

Overt participation Advantages & Disadvantages

Answer 5

Advantages:
Avoids ethical problems - deceit
Can use interview methods
Can take notes freely

Disadvantages:
Group may refuse permission
Risks Hawthorne Effect

Question 6

Covert Participant observation Advantages & Disadvantages

Answer 6

Advantages:
Avoids Hawthorne Effect

Disadvantages:
Researcher characteristics
Requires detailed knowledge
Can’t combine other observation methods
Deceit
May have to participate in immoral / illegal activity

Question 7

An Overt & Covert Observation example

Answer 7

Eileen Barker - tried to find out how and why people become a Moonie and join this religion

James Patrick - tried to find out about the social conditions that lead to gangs forming