observational techniques Flashcards
describe a naturalistic observation
take place in the setting or context where the target behaviour would usually occur. All aspects of the environment are free to vary.
evaluate naturalistic observations
high external validity as findings can be generalised to everyday life.
However lack of control makes replication difficult and there may be uncontrolled CV’s and EV’s that may make behaviour difficult to judge
describe a controlled observation
there is some control over variables including manipulating variables to observe effects and also control over EV’s and CVs. Takes place in a structured environment
evaluate controlled observations
replication is easier as EV’s and CVs are controlled and procedures are standardised. This means findings can be checked
However may produce findings that can’t be readily applied to everyday life as the behaviour may be contrived as a result if the setting- low external validity
describe a covert observation
pp’s behaviour is watched and recorded WITHOUT their knowledge or consent. They’re unaware that they’re the focus of a study.
evaluate covert observations
Behaviour must be already naturally occurring & public for the observation to be ethical. Behaviour is almost always natural as demand characteristics aren’t possible. High internal validity.
However, the ethics of this observation are questionable since people may not want to have behaviours recorded even in public due to privacy.
describe an overt observation
pp’s behaviour is watched and recored WITH their knowledge and consent.
evaluate overt observations
more ethically acceptable than covert as pp’s have given consent and have the right to withdraw
However, the fact that pp’s know they’re being recorded may make them change their behaviour (demand characteristics) which reduces the validity
describe a participant observation
the researcher becomes a member of the group whose behaviour they are watching and recording
evaluate participant observations
researcher is given an increased insight into the lives of people being observed as they experience the situation as they do. High external validity.
However researcher may come to identify too strongly with pp’s and may lose objectivity. Line between ppt and researcher becomes blurred
describe a non-participant observation
the researcher remains outside of the group whose behaviour they’re watching and recording.
evaluate non-participant observations
allow the researcher to maintain an objective psychological distance so adopting a local lifestyle isn’t a danger. This may increase internal validity
However they may lose the valuable insight to be gained as they are too far removed from the pp’s which may reduce external validity
