Observations

Question 1

Outline the difference between naturalistic and controlled observation. (3 marks)

Answer 1

A controlled observation takes place in an artificial condition where there is some control/manipulation of the variables as well as control of any extraneous variable whereas a naturalistic observation takes place where the target behaviour would normally occur.

Question 2

Explain one strength and one weakness of using a controlled observation. (2 marks + 2 marks)

Answer 2

A strength of using a controlled observation is that there is a high control of any extraneous variables & standardisation, meaning that the observation can be replicated to check for reliability of the data.
A weakness of using a controlled observation is that it has poor external validity. Because the setting and variables are manipulated, participants may not act naturally and the finding can therefore not be generalised to real life settings.

Question 3

Briefly outline what is meant by a covert observation and an overt observation. (2 marks)

Answer 3

Covert observations are those in which the participants are unaware that they are the focus of the study and their behaviour is observed in secret whereas overt observations are when they know their behaviour is being observed and have given informed consent.

Question 4

Explain one strength and one weakness of participant observation (2 marks + 2 marks)

Answer 4

A strength of using a participant observation is that it can lead to greater insights on the participants as the researcher experiences the situation as they do - enhancing the overall validity of the observation.
A weakness of using a participant observation is that there is a potential loss of objectivity. The researcher may identify too strongly with those they are studying (‘going native’), influencing the results.

Question 5

Explain what is meant by time sampling in an observation (2 marks)

Answer 5

Time sampling involves recording behaviour within a pre-established time frame. For example, making note of a target individual’s behaviour every 30 seconds.

Question 6

Explain what is meant by event sampling in an observation (2 marks)

Answer 6

Event sampling involves counting the number of times a particular behaviour occurs in a target individual/group .

Question 7

Explain, with examples, what behavioural categories are (3 marks)

Answer 7

In order to produce a structured record of what the observer sees/hears, it is necessary to break the target up into behavioural categories. These should be both observable and measurable. E.g. affection could be broken up into holding hands, smiling, kissing, hugging etc.

Question 8

Imagine you are conducting an observation of the ‘confidence’ shown by students in a lesson. Operationalise the behaviour ‘confidence’ using three behavioural categories. (3 marks)

Answer 8

• Putting hand up to answer a question.
• Smiling
• Eye contact with the teacher