Observations Flashcards
What do we not do in an observation that we do in an experiment?
• We do not manipulate an IV and there are no variables whatsoever.
What is the difference between a structured and unstructured observation?
- Structured observation - Using a previously decided checklist of behavioural observations.
- Unstructured observation - Using no checklist and simply recording all behaviours observed.
What is event sampling and what type of observational technique do you use with it?
•Event sampling is constantly observing behaviour for a set amount of time. It involves using a structured observation technique to record behaviour.
What is the difference between a overt and covert observation?
- Overt is where the researcher is honest about their true intention of the research and informs the participants they are being watched.
- Covert is where the researcher hides their true intention of the research and does not inform participants they are being watched.
What is time sampling and what observational technique does it use?
•Time sampling is an observation carried out at a set length of time at set intervals (E.g. Every 5 minutes, observe for 1 minute). It involves using an unstructured observational technique to record behaviour.
What are the advantages of time sampling?
- Increases concentration as observer is not looking for prolonged periods of time.
- Reduces number of observations made, adds focus & clarity to the observation.
What are the disadvantages of time sampling?
- The observations may not be representative as only small periods of time.
- May miss out on some interesting behaviour which is not being recorded.
What are the advantages of event sampling?
- Catches all behaviour as looking constantly.
* Useful when behaviour you’re looking for only happens occasionally.
What are the disadvantages of event sampling?
- May miss some behaviour as too many things are happening at once.
- Difficult to concentrate and catch all behaviour for prolonged periods of time.
What is the difference between participant and non-participant observation?
- Participant observations are where the researcher takes part in whatever activity they are observing.
- Non-participant observations are where the researcher does not participate in the activity they are observing and simply observes.
What are the advantages of using a structured observation?
- Produces quantitive data which is very easy to analyse and record.
- Provides focus to your observation for the researcher to follow and watch for the specific behaviour.
What are the disadvantages of a structured observation?
• It can lead to researcher bias as the categories can be vague and the researcher will see what they want to see.
What are the advantages of a covert observation?
• High ecological validity due to the same social context they would usually be, leading to natural behaviour.
What are the disadvantages of a covert observation?
- Limited control over extraneous variables.
- Difficult to replicate leads to it being difficult to generalise to another setting.
- May lead to observer bias and assumptions.
What are the disadvantages of an unstructured observation?
- Hard to accurately record everything that happens.
* Hard to analyse as the data will be very qualitative.
