Observational techniques Flashcards
What is a naturalistic observation?
Watching and recording behaviour in the setting it would typically occur
What is a controlled observation?
Watching and recording behaviour within a structured environment (control over variables)
What is a covert observation?
Participants’ behaviour is watched and recorded without their knowledge or consent
What is an overt observation?
Participants’ behaviour is watched and recorded with their consent
What is a participant observation?
The researcher becomes a member of the group they are watching and recording
What is a non-participant observation?
The researcher remains outside of the group they are watching and recording
What are the limitations of observations?
- Observer bias (interpretations may be affected by researchers’ expectations)
- Cannot demonstrate causal relationships
- Impractical (time-consuming, requires training)
What are the strengths of observations?
- Capture unexpected behaviour
- Give an insight into behaviour
What are the strengths of naturalistic observations?
- High external validity, as findings can be generalised to real life
What are the limitations of naturalistic observations?
- Lack of control over the situation, so replication is difficult
- Confounding/extraneous variables
What are the strengths of controlled observations?
- Easier to replicate, as variables are controlled
What are the limitations of controlled observations?
- Findings cannot always be applied to everyday life
What are the strengths of covert observations?
- Demand characteristics removed (participants unaware they’re being watched)- increases internal validity
What are the limitations of covert observations?
- Unethical due to lack of informed consent
What are the strengths of overt observations?
- Ethically acceptable
