types f observations Flashcards
what are the types of observations?
naturalistic structured participant non participant overt covert
what is a naturalistic observation?
researchers observe a behaviour that is naturally occurring and take place in a participants natural environment
what are the strengths of a N observation?
- mundane validity
- increased ecological validity
what is a weakness of N obs?
-harder to control, many extraneous variable that may effect results
what is a structured obs?
researcher attempts to control certain variables in the environment
likely to be carried out in a psychology environment
with a standardised procedure
bandura
strengths of S obs?
higher level of controls internal validity
reliable
weakness of S obs?
- lack ecological validity
- demand characteristics
what is a participant observation?
`when the researcher joins the observation groups, takes part allowing an insiders perspective
what are strengths of participant?
- rich qualitative data
- easier to study and understand behaviour
- builds trust
weaknesses of participant?
observer may become emotionally involved meaning results may become subjective to opinion bias
presence of observer may change the groups dynamic
what is a overt obs?
participants are aware that they are being observed
what is a covert obs?
ppt unaware
strength of overt?
ethical
weakness of overt?
behaviour displayed may not be natural
what is a strength of covert
reduces demand characteristics
