RESEARCH METHODS - 1.4 Observations

Question 1

Define an Observation

Answer 1

Research method that involves watching human or animal behaviour

Question 2

What are the 4 types of observers?

Answer 2

1. Overt observer
2. Covert observer
3. Participant observer
4. Non-participant observer

Question 3

Define an Overt observer

Answer 3

Here the participant know who the observer is and that they are being observed

Question 4

Define a Covert observer

Answer 4

Where the observer is usually in a group of participants but they are totally unaware of who the observer is

Question 5

Define a Participant Observer

Answer 5

An observer who watches from the perspective of being part of the social setting of the participants

Question 6

Define a Non-Participant Observer

Answer 6

An observer who does not become involved in the situation that is being studied

Question 7

What are the 4 different types of observations?

Answer 7

1. Structured observation
2. Unstructured observation
3. Naturalistic observation
4. Controlled observation

Question 8

Define a Structured Observation

Answer 8

Study where the only a limited range of behaviours are recorded by the observer

Question 9

Define an Unstructured Observation

Answer 9

where a range of behaviours, that is confined to a pilot study, are recorded by the observer to refine the behavioural categories

Question 10

Define a Naturalistic Observation

Answer 10

Study where the participant’s behaviour is observed in their normal environment without the researcher interfering in their social or physical environment

Question 11

Define a Controlled Observation

Answer 11

Where the researcher watches the participant’s behaviour in a situation where the social and physical environment had been manipulated.