observational techniques

Question 1

what is a naturalistic observation?

Answer 1

watching and recording behaviour in the setting in which it would normally occur

Question 2

what is a controlled observation?

Answer 2

watching and recording behaviour within a structured environment

Question 3

evaluation of naturalistic observation

Answer 3

high external validty, behaviour is more natural, findings can be more accurately generalised
lack of control, more difficult to replicate

Question 4

what is a covert observation?

Answer 4

participants behaviour is watched and recorded without their knowldege or consent

Question 5

what is an overt observation?

Answer 5

particpants behaviour is watched with their knowledge and consent

Question 6

evaluation of covert observation

Answer 6

increased internal validity, reduces the effect of demand characteristics
ethical issues, lack of informed consent from ppts

Question 7

what is participant observation?

Answer 7

the researcher becomes a member of the groups whose behaviour they are watching and recording

Question 8

what is non-particopant observation?

Answer 8

the researcher remains outside of the group whose behaviour they are watching and recording

Question 9

evaluation of participant observation

Answer 9

increased external validity, researcher experiences the situation as the participants do, more insight
chance of researcher losing objectivity if they come to identify too strongly with those they are studying