observations Flashcards
what is non-participant observation?
researcher simply observes the group or the event without taking part in it e.g. through the use of two way mirrors
what is participant observation?
researcher takes part in the event of everyday life of the group whilst observing it
what is overt observation?
the researcher makes their true identity and purpose known to those being studied (they are open about what they’re doing)
what is covert observation?
the researchers real identity and purpose are kept concealed from the group being studied (carried out ‘undercover’)
what are the steps in the process of conducting a participant observation?
getting in - making contact, acceptance
staying in - ‘going native’ could lead to getting over involved
getting out
advantages of participant observation
- first hand knowledge of group being studied
- build relationship and trust
- more in depth, valid data
- not artificial
- flexible
disadvantages of participant observation
- time consuming
- hard to gain access
- might need special training (could be - dangerous)
- hawthorne effect
- witnessing crime but not reporting it - ethical issues?
advantages of non participant observation
- less likely to get distracted/too immersed and miss things
- can be used when groups aren’t willing to cooperate
- not artificial
- more objective
- quantitative
disadvantages of non participant observation
- hawthorne effect
- participants may feel uncomfortable
- may not be able to gain context/understanding - not ‘stepping into their shoes’
- rapport/relationship can’t build
advantages of covert observation
- won’t alter behaviour/less likely to influence
- more valid - reduced effects of social desirability
- can be better controlled and monitored as the researcher can dig deeper and assess more
disadvantages of covert observation
- consent is not obtained - not ethical
- participants might notice they’re being watched - may change their behaviour
- no opportunity to ask questions/enquire more
- can be dangerous in certain situations
- risk of cover being blown
- need to have detailed knowledge of the group prior
advantages of overt observation
- ethical - participants are aware they’re being studied
- can ask questions/take notes - gain a great insight / understanding - don’t need to rely on memory - natural
- practical - can be conducted over an extended period
disadvantages of overt observation
- a group may refuse to be observed
- hawthorne effect - participants change their behaviour as they know they’re being studied
- decreases validity - risk of demand characteristics
- high risk of incurring socially desirable responses
