R8: Behavioural Observation

Question 0

What are two measurement problems with behavioural observation as a measurement technique?

Answer 0

• goal is to observe natural behaviour so need to be wary of demand characteristics and reactivity.
• requires some degree of subjective interpretation by the observer. Concerns about intra-rater and inter-rater reliability.

Question 1

What is the defining element of an observational research design?

Answer 1

The results of the observations are used simply to describe the variable being studied

Question 2

What is the difference between behavioural observation and the observational research design?

Answer 2

• as a measurement technique, behavioural observation can be used in a variety of research strategies including experimental and correlational designs.
• whereas a study using behavioural observation simply for descriptive purposes is classified as an observational research design

Question 3

How do you address the reactivity/demand characteristics of behavioural observation?

Answer 3

1. Conceal observer so participants don’t know they are being observed
2. Allow participants to habituated to observer presence before recording behaviours e.g. In classroom or camera in car

Question 4

How to address to problem of observer subjectivity in behavioural observation design?

Answer 4

1. Develop a list of well-defined categories
2. Use well trained observers
3. Use multiple observers to assess inter-rater reliability

Question 5

What are the three methods of quantifying behaviours in observational research?

Answer 5

1. Frequency method: counting the instances of each specific behaviour that occur during a fixed time observation period.
2. Duration method: recording how much time an individual spends engaged in a specific behaviour during a fixed-time observation period.
3. Interval method: dividing the observation period into a series of intervals and then recording whether a specific behaviour occurs during each interval