Observations(research methods) Flashcards
What is an observation ?
A research method where no variables are manipulated and ppts are watched and their behaviour is recorded
Used as a technique to record behaviour in experiments
What are the two types of observation
Participant observation
Non participant observation
What is participant observation
The observer acts as part of the group being watched
Non- participant observation
The researcher does not become part of the group being observed
Participant observation strengths
Insight into ppts emotions and motives
Ppts may be unaware so high internal validity- natural behaviour
Weaknesses of ppt observation
Observers may be subjective as they’re part of the group
Strengths of non-participant observation
Observers can remain objective as they’re not involved
Weaknesses of non- participant observation
If ppts unaware, ethical issues
If ppts are aware , behaviour may change
Covert observation
They don’t know they’re being watched
‘Undercover observation’
Ppts are not aware of being observed
Overt observation
‘Open observation’
Ppts are aware of being observed
Covert observation strengths
Ppts behave naturally
Covert observation weaknesses
Ethical issues
May be difficult to maintain covert status
Overt observation strengths
More ethical
Overt observation weaknesses
Ppts may not behave as they normally do
Naturalistic observations
Observations can take place in a natural situation
Controlled observations
Observations can take place where some variables are controlled and manipulated
Strengths of naturalistic observation
Natural behaviour:
High internal and ecological validity
Useful in situations where it would be unethical to intervene
Strengths of controlled observation
Data recording more reliable- equipment can be used
Control over extraneous variables
Weaknesses of naturalistic observation
No control over extraneous variables
If ppts become aware of the observation behaviour may change - low validity
Weaknesses of controlled observation
Demand characteristics
Unstructured observation
All( relevant) behaviours are recorded
Usually qualitative data
Structured observation
Only selected behaviours are recorded- pre- determined categories
Usually quantitative data
What are behavioural categories
The pre-determined units of behaviour to be observed
What are the two behavioural categories
Verbal
Physical
Recording behaviours
Behavioural categories can be made more precises by using coding frames/ scheme
These are used to differentiate behaviours
Behaviours that have different levels/ severities are represented as abbreviations or ‘codes’
What are the coding frames for verbal aggression (N,T,M)
N= name calling T= threats S= shouting
What are the coding frames for physical aggression
H=hitting
B=biting
K=kicking
Structured observation strengths
Pre determined categories can be agreed beforehand, increases reliability
Weaknesses of structured observation
Limited categories of behaviour
No context to give meaning to behaviours
Strengths in unstructured behaviour
No limit in what can be recorded- rich and varied data
Detailed descriptions give context to behaviour
Weaknesses of unstructured observation
Observers can miss important info
Recording may be subjective and inconsistent
What are the two behaviour sampling methods
Time sampling
Event sampling
Time sampling
Observations within a set time frame may be made at regular time intervals and behaviours coded
Eg every 10 mins
Event sampling
Keep a tally chart of every time a behaviour in your categories occurs within a set time frame
Time sampling strengths
Should be representative of overall time spent on each behaviour
More manageable
Time sampling weaknesses
Some behaviours may be missed
Strengths of event sampling
Every behaviour is recorded to give a complete record
Weaknesses of event sampling
May be difficult for observers when a lot is happening at the same time
