Observation Flashcards
What is a structured observation?
When researchers design a type of coding system to record participants behaviour
What is an unstructured observation?
Researchers record all behaviour they see (no advanced plan)
What is a strength of a structured observation?
Easier to record as observer is able to focus on specific behaviours
Collects quantitative data which is easy to analyse
What is a weakness of a structured observation?
Potentially important behaviours may be missed
Quantitative data means there is no meaningful detail or context of the behaviours being observed
What is a strength of an unstructured observation?
All behaviours are taken into account
What is a weakness of an unstructured interview?
Harder to record as researcher has to pay attention to everything which may cause some behaviours to be missed
Open to observer bias as researcher may only note down behaviours that support their own theories
What is a covert observation?
Participants are unaware they are being watched
What is an overt observation?
Participants are aware they are being studied
What is a strength of a covert observation?
High validity as demand characteristics are unlikely
What is a weakness of a covert observation?
Potentially unethical due to a lack of consent
What is a strength of an overt observation?
More ethical as participants are able to give consent
What is a weakness of an overt observation?
Behaviour may change if participants know they are being watched low validity/demand characteristics
What is time sampling?
Recording observations at specific time intervals
What is a strength of time sampling?
Reduces number of observations needed
What is a weakness of time sampling?
Important behaviour may not be recorded if it occurs between intervals