Observational Research

Vocabulary flashcards covering the core concepts and characteristics of observational research.

Observation

The process of measuring behavior as it naturally occurs.

Observational studies

Studies that are primarily descriptive and do not produce explanations.

Naturalistic observation

Study people or animals as they act in their everyday environment

Participant observation

The researcher joins the group being observed

Absence of control

Researches must take why the situation gives them. Can’t draw conclusions about cause and effect because we can control variables.

Observer bias

Beliefs about what will happen will influence observations

Behavior checklist

A predefined list of operationally defined actions that trained researchers watch for and systematically record.