Observations Flashcards
What is an observation
A type of research method where the researcher watches their participants to try to come to conclusions about behaviour
What are the 6 types of observations
lab, natural, overt, covert, participant, non-participant
What is a lab observation
Observation carried out in an artificial setting
What is a natural observation
Carried out in the participants own environment
What is overt observation
Observation carried out in a natural setting but participants know they are being observed
What is covert observation
Observation carried out in natural setting but participant does not know they are being observed
What is a participant observation
The researcher becomes involved in the group they are observing
What is non-participant observation
No direct contact between the observer and those being observed
Strengths of lab observation
Can be easily replicated to check reliability
High levels of control
Weaknesses of lab observation
Low ecological validity as the researcher records behaviour in an artificial environment
Strengths of a natural observation
High levels of ecological validity as the researcher records naturally occurring behaviour
Weaknesses of natural observation
Cannot be replicated to check reliability
Strengths of overt observation
It is possible to inform participants in advance and obtain informed consent
Weaknesses of overt observation
Behaviour can be distorted through investigator effects in which a participants changes their behaviour through social desirability bias
Strengths of covert observation
Investigator effects are unlikely meaning that participants’ behaviour will be genuine
Weaknesses of covert observation
Less ethical as participants are not aware they are taking part and cannot give fully informed consent
Strengths of participant observation
The researcher can obtain in-depth data as they are in close proximity to the participants and so are unlikely to overlook or miss any behaviours
Weaknesses of participant observation
The researchers’ presence might influence the participants’ behaviour due to evaluation apprehension
Strengths of non-participant observation
Investigator effects and evaluation apprehensions are less likely as the researcher is not visible
Weaknesses of non-participant observation
Due to lack of proximity, the researcher might overlook or miss behaviours of interest
