Observations Flashcards
What is controlled observation?
Watching and recording behaviour within a structured environment where some variables are managed
What is natural observation?
A researcher observes the spontaneous behaviour of participants in their natural surroundings.
What is an overt observation?
The participants know that the observation is taking place and they are aware of all aspects of the study
What is covert observation?
When participants do not know they are being observed or an observation is taking place, however someone in the setting is likely to know as they need to have permission and check ethics.
What is participant observation?
It is a variant of natural observations but here the researcher joins in and becomes part of the group they are studying to get a deeper insight into their lives
What is non-participant observation?
Observers are not part of what is happening and they sit away from the activity and aren’t involved.
What are the strengths of naturalistic observation?
There is greater ecological validity and there is an opportunity to study the total situation which often suggests avenues of inquiry not thought of before.
What are the weaknesses of naturalistic observation?
It is often conducted on a micro scale so it may lack a representative example and it is less reliable as other variables can’t be controlled which may make repeating the study difficult
What are the strengths of a controlled observation?
It can be easily replicated so is easier to test for reliability and they are quick to conduct so many observations can occur within a short time frame. Also the data obtained is easier and quicker to analyse as it is quantitative
What are the weaknesses of a controlled observation?
Can lack validity due to demand characteristics
What are the strengths of a covert observation?
Participants are unaware so behaviour is more natural which makes data more valid and the researcher can maintain distance from participants without influencing their behaviour
What are the weaknesses of a covert observation?
Can be unethical as consent isn’t obtained so participants can be distressed when they find out and it does not allow for secret observations if not in public
What are the strengths of an overt observation?
More ethical as researchers get informed consent. Also, researchers can ask for help when setting up a suitable place for observations and participant observers can ask for help in getting data which might not be able to access usually
What are the weaknesses of an overt observation?
Demand characteristics likely to be high as participants know they are being observed so less valid data and observers may not be able to carry out duties as participants know observer is taking on a role (in participant observations)
What are the strengths of a participant observation?
Greater ecological validity as participants are undisturbed and observer can get additional information and data as have better access to it and can observe things non-participant observers wouldn’t
