OBSERVATIONAL TECHNIQUES

How many types of observation are there

6

What are the types of observation

Controlled, naturalistic, overt, cover, partcipant and non participant

What is a controlled observation

An observation in a lab setting with controlled variables

What is a strength of a controlled observation

They are highly controlled

What is a weakness of a controlled observation

Low ecological validity

What is a naturalistic observation

An observation in a real life setting

What is a strength of a naturalistic observation

High ecological validity

What is a weakness of a naturalistic observation

Low control and less replicable

What is an overt observation

Where participants know they’re being observed

What is a strength of an overt observation

It’s ethically sound

What is a weakness of an overt observation

It has demand characteristics

What is a covert observation

Participants don’t know they’re being observed

What is a strength of a covert observation

Natural behaviour being observed so high validity

What is a weakness of a covert observation

Ethical concerns and a lack of informed consent

What is a participant observation

Where the researcher is involved in the group

What is a strength of a participant observation

Rich insights into the participants behaviour

What is a weakness of a particioant observation

It’s subjective and there’s a risk of bias

What is a non participant observation

Where the researcher observes from a distance

What is a strength of a non participant observation

It is objective

What is a weakness of a non participant observation

It misuses detail and there’s less insight