Research Methods Y1 - Observational Design Flashcards
What are behavioural categories?
Behavioural categories refer to when a target behaviour is broken up into components that are observable and measurable.
What is event sampling?
Event sampling involves a target behaviour or event being established, and the researcher records this event every time it occurs.
What is time sampling?
Time sampling involves a target individual or group having their behaviour recorded in a fixed time frame, e.g., every 60 seconds.
What is inter-observer reliability?
Inter-observer reliability refers to the extent to which there is consistency between the observations of two or more observers. Observers are trained to use behavioural categories the same way and then compare their observations to calculate reliability.
What are structured observations?
Structured observations involve the use of behavioural categories to record data in a systematic and numerical form, often using a checklist or coding system.
What are unstructured observations?
Unstructured observations involve recording all relevant behaviour as it occurs, without a pre-determined coding system, often producing rich qualitative data.
What is one evaluation point for structured observations?
Point: Structured observations are easier to analyse and compare.
Evidence: This is because the data produced is likely to be numerical, often gathered using pre-determined behavioural categories.
Explain: The use of numerical data makes it simpler to identify patterns and trends, allowing for efficient statistical analysis. However, a key limitation is that structured observations may miss important behaviours or nuances that are not included in the behavioural checklist.
Link: Therefore, while structured observations provide objectivity and ease of analysis, they may sacrifice richness in the data collected.
What is one evaluation point for unstructured observations?
Point: Unstructured observations provide rich and detailed qualitative data.
Evidence: This is due to the lack of pre-determined behavioural categories, allowing observers to record all relevant behaviours as they occur.
Explain: This can give a fuller picture of the observed situation and capture unexpected behaviours. However, unstructured observations are prone to observer bias, as the lack of defined categories can lead to subjective interpretations.
Link: As a result, unstructured observations are valuable for exploratory research but may lack the objectivity and reliability of structured methods.
What is one evaluation point for behavioural categories?
Point: Behavioural categories make data collection more objective and reliable.
Evidence: This is because the categories are designed to be measurable and self-evident, avoiding subjective judgment.
Explain: Clear and distinct categories ensure that behaviours are recorded consistently. However, if categories overlap or are unclear, such as confusing “smiling” and “grinning,” the reliability and accuracy of the data may decrease.
Link: Therefore, behavioural categories are effective when designed carefully, but poor construction can undermine the validity of the observations.
What is one evaluation point for event sampling?
Point: Event sampling reduces the chance of missing important behaviours.
Evidence: This method involves recording every instance of a target behaviour whenever it occurs.
Explain: By capturing all relevant events, the data collected is comprehensive and detailed. However, if events occur too frequently, this method can become impractical and overwhelming, risking errors in recording.
Link: Thus, event sampling is beneficial for studying infrequent behaviours but may not be feasible for high-frequency behaviours.
What is one evaluation point for time sampling?
Point: Time sampling reduces the amount of data collected, making it more manageable.
Evidence: This is achieved by recording behaviour at set intervals, such as every 60 seconds.
Explain: This method ensures that observers focus on specific time points, reducing the workload. However, it risks missing important behaviours that occur outside these intervals, leading to an incomplete dataset.
Link: Consequently, time sampling is efficient but may compromise the representativeness of the observations.
What is one evaluation point for inter-observer reliability?
Point: Inter-observer reliability improves objectivity and reduces bias in observational studies.
Evidence: This is achieved by training observers to use behavioural categories consistently and comparing their observations.
Explain: High inter-observer reliability ensures that the data is reliable and free from individual bias. However, achieving this level of agreement requires extensive preparation and training, which can be time-consuming.
Link: Therefore, inter-observer reliability enhances the credibility of observational research but may not always be practical to implement.
