Observation techniques

obeservations

is a reseach methods where behaviour is watched and recorded systematically to study what people do rather than what they say, interviews

6 types of observation

1. naturalistic observation

2. controlled observation

3. covert observation

4. overt observations

5. participant observations

6. non-participant observation

naturalistic observation

Behaviour is study in ppt normal environments

positive to naturalistic

• high ecological- behaviour is nutural

• useful when lab controlled isn’t possible

negatives to naturalistic

• no control over extraneous variables

• difficult to replicate or establish cause and effect

controlled observation

Researcher control some variables or environment often in a lab setting

positives of controlled observation

• easier to replicate due to control

• allow for more accurate measurements

negatives of controlled observation

• low ecological validity-behaviour may be less natural

• ppt may show demand characteristics

covert observation

ppt dont know they are being observers

positives to covert observations

• high validity-behaviour

Negative to covert observations

• Raise ethical issues

• hard to record data accurately without noticed

overt observation

ppt know they are being observed

positives of overt observations

• ethically sound

• easier to record data

negatives of overt obseravtion

• demand characteristics may occur

participant observation

the reseacher joins in with the group being studied

Positive of participant observation

• gain- in depth insight into behaviour and motivation

• may access information outsiders cant

negative of participant observation

• Risk of researcher bias

• difficult to remain objective and record data accurately

non-participant observation

the researcher observers from a distance and doesnt intract

Positives of non-participant observation

• more objective

• easier to record data systematically

negatives of non-participant observation

• may miss context or meaning behind behaviour

• less detailed understanding