observational techniques Flashcards
what is a naturalistic observation?
watching and recording behaviour in the setting in which it would normally occur
what is a controlled observation?
watching and recording behaviour within a structured environment
evaluation of naturalistic observation
high external validty, behaviour is more natural, findings can be more accurately generalised
lack of control, more difficult to replicate
what is a covert observation?
participants behaviour is watched and recorded without their knowldege or consent
what is an overt observation?
particpants behaviour is watched with their knowledge and consent
evaluation of covert observation
increased internal validity, reduces the effect of demand characteristics
ethical issues, lack of informed consent from ppts
what is participant observation?
the researcher becomes a member of the groups whose behaviour they are watching and recording
what is non-particopant observation?
the researcher remains outside of the group whose behaviour they are watching and recording
evaluation of participant observation
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
