Observational Techniques Flashcards
what is meant by observation
A method of collecting information about behaviour by watching and recording people’s actions.
what is an naturalistic observation
Take place in a real life and natural environment where behaviour would normally occur
• There is no control over any aspects of the environment.
advantage of using naturalistic observation
High ecological validity- takes place in real life so can apply to other real world scenarios
disadvantage of naturalistic observation
- Less replicability (hard to repeat the same)
– no standardised procedure
describe controlled observation
- Takes place in an artificial environment
- Aspects of the environment are controlled to observe effects and reducing extraneous variables.
advantage of controlled observation
High replicability – standardised so easy to repeat
disadvantage of controlled observation
Low ecological validity –doesn’t take place in real life setting so hard to generalise
what is a covert observation
Participants are not aware that they are being observed.
- Behaviour is recorded without obtaining consent from the participants.
advantage of covert observation
Few demand characteristics – as participants are unaware they are being observed
disadvantage of covert observation
Ethical issues – deception / no consent
what is an overt observation
Participants know that they are being observed.
- Have given informed consent before hand
advantages of overt observation
No ethical issues – consent has been given
disadvantages of an overt observation
Demand characteristics- participants will behave differently to normal because they know they are being observed
What is a participant observation
The observer remains separate from they people they are observing just records information without direct participant
What are the advantages of participant observation
More in depth and valid data- gives a better insight into participants
What is the disadvantage of participant observation
Lacks objectivity – researchers may form a bond with participants - leading to subjective conclusions
What is non participant observation
The observer remains separate from they people they are observing just records information without direct participation.
Advantage of non-participant observation
Easier to record data – data more valid/accurate
Disadvantage of non-participant observation
Less in depth- researcher may not be able to understand the reasons for even the subtle interactions and behaviours among participants.
