Research Methods- Observational design Flashcards
Behavioural categories -
When a target behaviour is broken up into components that are observable and measurable.
Event sampling -
A target behaviour or event is first established then the researcher records this event every time it occurs.
Time sampling -
A target individual or group is first established then the researcher records their behaviour in a fixed time frame, say, every 60 seconds.
What is inter-observer reliability?
Inter-observer reliability ensures that multiple observers record data consistently and objectively, reducing bias and increasing the validity of the findings.
Why is it recommended to have at least two observers in observational studies?
Single observers may miss details or only notice events that confirm their biases, introducing bias into the research process.
How is inter-observer reliability established?
Observers familiarize themselves with behavioral categories, observe the same behavior simultaneously, compare and discuss their data, and analyze the results together.
How is inter-observer reliability calculated?
It is calculated by correlating the observations made by each pair of observers to produce an overall reliability figure.
What is an unstructured observation?
An unstructured observation involves recording everything the researcher sees, producing detailed and rich accounts of behavior, often used in small-scale studies.
What is a structured observation?
A structured observation uses predefined behavioral categories and sampling methods to simplify and quantify the recording of target behaviors.
What is an example of an unstructured observation?
Observing interactions between a couple and a therapist during a marriage counseling session.
What is an example of a structured observation?
Defining specific acts of aggression (e.g., hitting, shouting) in a school playground and counting their occurrences.
What are behavioral categories?
Behavioral categories break down target behaviors into observable and measurable actions, such as defining “affection” as hugging, kissing, or holding hands.
Why must behavioral categories be clear and unambiguous?
Clear categories ensure that different observers interpret and record behaviors consistently, increasing reliability.
What is event sampling?
Event sampling involves counting how often a specific behavior (event) occurs within a target individual or group.
What is an example of event sampling?
Counting the number of times football players disagree with the referee during a match.
What is a strength of structured observations?
They make data recording easier and more systematic, often producing numerical data that is straightforward to analyze and compare.
What is an example of time sampling?
Recording a football player’s behavior every 30 seconds during a match.
What is time sampling?
Time sampling involves recording behavior at predefined intervals, such as noting what a target individual is doing every 30 seconds.
What is a limitation of structured observations?
They may miss the richness and depth of detail found in unstructured observations.
What is a strength of unstructured observations?
They provide detailed and rich qualitative data, capturing nuances that structured observations might miss.
What is a limitation of unstructured observations?
They are more prone to observer bias, as the researcher may only record behaviors that stand out, potentially missing important details.
Why should behavioral categories be exclusive and not overlap?
Overlapping categories (e.g., “smiling” vs. “grinning”) can lead to inconsistent interpretations, reducing reliability.
What is a “dustbin category” in behavioral checklists?
A “dustbin category” is a catch-all category for behaviors that don’t fit elsewhere, which can reduce the clarity and reliability of the data.
What is a strength of event sampling?
It is useful for infrequent behaviors that might be missed with time sampling.
What is a limitation of event sampling?
If the event is too complex, important details may be overlooked.
What is a strength of time sampling?
It reduces the number of observations needed, making data collection more manageable.
What is a limitation of time sampling?
The sampled instances may not be representative of the overall behavior.
How can researchers ensure behavioral categories are effective?
By making them observable, measurable, and self-evident, and ensuring they cover all possible forms of the target behavior without overlap.
What is the role of pilot studies in establishing inter-observer reliability?
Pilot studies allow observers to practice using behavioral categories and compare their data, ensuring consistency before the main study.
Why is it important to avoid inferences in behavioral categories?
Inferences (e.g., “being loving”) can be interpreted differently by observers, reducing reliability.
What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative data in observations?
Qualitative data provides rich, detailed descriptions, while quantitative data involves numerical measurements, making it easier to analyze and compare.
How can structured observations reduce observer bias?
By using predefined behavioral categories and systematic sampling methods, structured observations minimize subjective interpretations.
What is observer bias?
Observer bias occurs when researchers selectively record behaviors that align with their expectations or hypotheses, compromising the validity of the data.
What is the importance of training observers in observational studies?
Training ensures that observers understand and apply behavioral categories consistently, improving inter-observer reliability and reducing bias.
