Observational Techniques Flashcards
What are the 6 observational techniques?
-Naturalistic, Controlled.
-Covert, Overt.
-Participant, Non-Participant.
What is a naturalistic observation?
Observation in a natural environment, with no manipulation of variables.
What is a controlled observation?
Observation when the environment is controlled (lab setting).
What is a covert observation?
Where participants are unaware that they’re being watched.
What is an overt observation?
Where participants are aware that they’re being watched.
What is a participant observation?
Where the observer participates in the experiment with the group.
What is a non-participant observation?
Where the observer observes from a distance.
What are advantages of naturalistic observations?
-High ecological validity.
-High external validity.
What are advantages of controlled observations?
-Replicable.
-Control over extraneous variables.
What are advantages of covert observations?
-No demand characteristics.
-Natural behaviour.
What are advantages of overt observations?
-Ethically acceptable.
What are advantages of participant observations?
-Insightful, increases validity of findings.
What are advantages of non-participant observations?
-Objective.
What are disadvantages of naturalistic observations?
-Difficult to replicate.
-Demand characteristics.
What are disadvantages of controlled observations?
-Low ecological validity.
-Demand characteristics.
