observational techniques

Question 1

what is a naturalistic observation

Answer 1

• watching a recording behaviour in the setting within which it would normally occur

Question 2

what is a controlled observation

Answer 2

watching and recording behaviour within a structured environment where variables are managed

Question 3

what is a covert observation

Answer 3

participants behaviour is watched and recorded without their knowledge or consent

Question 4

what is an overt observation

Answer 4

participants behaviour is watched and recorded wit their knowledge and consent

Question 5

what is a participant observation

Answer 5

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

Question 6

what is a non participant observation

Answer 6

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

Question 7

evaluation of naturalistic and controlled observations

Answer 7

1. naturalist observations have high external validity as findings can be generalised to everyday life
   - but replication is difficult due to lack of control over the research situation
2. controlled observations may produce findings that cannot be readily applied to everyday life
   - confounding variables not a factor so replications easier

Question 8

evaluation if covert and overt observations

Answer 8

1. in covert observations there is no demand characteristic which increases internal validity
   - ethical issue as no informed consent
2. in overt observation there is no ethical issues as participants give consent
   - may be confounding variables due to demand characteristics

Question 9

participants and non participants observation

Answer 9

1. in participant observation the researcher can experience the situation as the participant does, giving them increased insight increases external validity
   - may lose objectivity