Observations Flashcards
What is a Naturalistic Observation?
It takes place in a natural environment and is not manipulated but the researcher.
What is a Covert Observation?
When the observer does not inform people that they are observing and recording behaviour.
What is an Overt Observation?
When the observer is open about the fact that they are observing.
What is Participant Observation?
When the observer is part of the observation that they are observing.
What is Event Sampling?
When the observer records behaviour at regular time intervals.
Name 2 strengths of a Naturalistic Observation.
1) Increase of validity because you’re in a natural environment where you normally find yourself.
2) Reducing the ‘screw you effect’ because they don’t know they’re being observed (biased).
Name 2 Weaknesses for a Naturalistic Observation.
1) Harder to repeat because here is not the same situation meaning it’s not as reliable.
2) Pretty much every ethical issue (Consent, briefing, deception, right to withdraw etc.)
Name 1 Strength of a Covert Observation.
There will be no social desirability because they don’t know they’re being observed.
Name 1 Weakness of a Covert Observation.
Unethical because they don’t know they’re being observed.
Name 1 Strength of an Overt Observation.
Ethical because they know they’re being observed.
Name 1 Weakness of an Overt Observation.
There would be social desirability which would alter their behaviour.
Name 1 Strength of a Participant Observation.
Easier to spot findings.
Name 1 Weakness of a Participant Observation.
Hard to write down findings and keep record.
