Research methods- Observations

Question 1

Behavioural Categories

Answer 1

If a structured observation, research must break behaviour into behaviour categories.
Categories must be fully operationalised, making it easy to identify/ record behaviour.
Will increase internal validity/ reliability.

Question 2

Example of BC

Answer 2

Behaviour checklist/ Coding system
Behaviours are predetermined/ given a code.
Each time behaviour is displayed code is written down.

Question 3

Pilot study

Answer 3

A small scale trail run of an investigation before completing the real thing.
Improves validity of research.

Question 4

Event Sampling

Answer 4

Recording every instance of a behaviour when it happens.

Question 5

ES AO3

Answer 5

P- Useful for infrequent behaviours
E- Research will still collect behaviours that do not occur in regular intervals
E- Behaviours could be easily missed

P- Complex behaviour oversimplified
E- If event too complex, important details may go unrecorded
E- May affect validity