Observational techniques Flashcards
Why do scientist do observational methods?
-study natural behaviour with no demand characteristics
-natural setting
What is Naturalistic?
Watching and recording behaviour in the setting it would normally occur.
Strengths of Naturalistic
-high ecological validity
-applied to everyday life
Weaknesses of naturalistic
-cannot be replicated
-no control of confounding variables
What is a controlled observation?
Watching and recording behaviour with a structured environment
Strengths of controlled observation
-replication is easier - reliable method
-more control over extraneous variables
Weaknesses of Controlled observation
-demand characteristics
What is a covert observational method?
A covert observational methos is Where participants behaviour is watched and recorded without their knowledge or consent .
Strengths of covert observation
-natural behaviours so will increase validity
Weaknesses of covert
unethical because of no consent
What is overt observation?
-Participant behaviour is watched and recorded with their knowledge and consent
Strengths of of overt observation
-ethical
Weaknesses of overt observation
-demand characteristics
What is participant observation?
- The researcher becomes a member of a group whose behaviour they are watching
What is non participant observation?
-The researcher remains outside the group who they are watching
