Observational techniques Flashcards
What is a naturalistic observation?
When you observe people in their natural environment without manipulating the setting.
What are the strengths of a naturalistic observation?
• higher external validity
• lower demand characteristics
What are the weaknesses of a naturalistic observation?
• hard to replicate
• difficult to judge behaviour
What is a controlled observation?
An observation that takes place in a controlled environment where the researcher manipulates aspects of the setting.
What are the strengths of a controlled observation?
・greater control over extraneous variables, makes it easy to replicate
What are the weaknesses of a controlled observation?
・low external validity
・increased chance of demand
characteristics
What is a covert observation?
The researcher is under cover observing.
What are the strengths of a covert observation?
・reduces the likelihood of demand
characteristics
What are the weaknesses of a covert observation?
・unethical
What is an overt observation?
The participant is aware they are being observed.
What are the strengths of an overt observation?
・you can obtain informed consent
What are the weaknesses of an overt observation?
・increased likelihood of demand
characteristics/social desirability
What is a participant observation?
Observations made by someone who is also participating in the activity being observed.
What are the strengths of a participant observation?
・greater insight into personal
experiences
・close proximity means they are
unlikely to overlook behaviour
What are the weaknesses of a participant observation?
・participant bias, may give
behavioural cues
・objectivity is affected
