observational techniques Flashcards
Naturalistic observation
watching and recording behaviour in the setting within which it would normally occur
Controlled observation
watching and recording behaviour within a structured environment ie one where some variables are managed
Covert observation
participants behaviour is watched and recorded without their knowledge or consent
Overt observation
participant behaviour is watched and recorded with their knowledge and consent
Participant observation
the researcher becomes a member of the group whose behaviour they are watching and recording
Non participant observation
the researcher remains outside of the group whose behaviour they are watching and recording
strengths of observations
Captures what people actually do - even if it’s unexpected behaviour
Special insight to behaviour
limitations of observation
Observer bias
Interpretation may be affected by expectations
Reduced by using more than one observer
strengths of naturalistic observations
High external validity as findings can be generalised to everyday life
limitations of naturalistic observation
Lack of control makes replication difficult
Uncontrolled confounding/extraneous variables make it difficult to judge pattern of behaviour
strengths of controlled conditions
confounding/extraneous variables less of a factor so replication is easier
limitations of controlled observations
Can’t always be applied to everyday life