Qualitative Primary Methods: Covert Research - Strengths and Weaknesses Flashcards
Why is covert research being less likely to produce the Hawthorne Effect a strength? Is it P, E or T?
Because participants are unaware they are being studied so don’t change their behaviour. This is a theoretical strength
Why is deception a weakness in covert ressearch? Is it P, E or T?
Because the researcher is lying to people about their purpose for being in a group. This is an ethical issue
Why is no informed consent a weakness in covert research? Is it P, E or T?
Participants have not stated that it is ok the research is done on them. This is an ethical weakness
Why is being unable to withdraw from research a weakness? Is it P, E or T?
It means participants if new sensitive events arrive, participants will not be aware they are still being researched. This is an ethical weakness
Why is access a strength with covert research? Is it P, E or T?
In some cases it could be the only way to access hard-to-reach groups in society. This is a practical strength
Why is guilty knowledge a weakness? Is it P, E or T?
Researchers may see illegal things and have the choice to report them to the police or not to. This is an ethical weakness
Why is recording data a weakness in covert research? Is it P, E or T?
Notes cannot be taken openly without raising suspicion among participants. This is a practical weakness
Why is social profile a weakness in covert research? Is it P, E or T?
The researcher needs to have a social profile which will allow them to be accepted by the group they’re researching. This is a practical weakness
How is verstehen a strength in covert research? Is it P, E or T?
Researchers can see how their participants view the world. This is a theoretical strength
How is needing to be a skilled actor a weakness in cover research? Is it P, E or T?
The researcher will need to blend in with the group. This is a practical weakness
