Control in Observational Techniques: Improving Reliability and Validity

Explain how to improve reliability of observations

When more than one observer is used they should all be similarly trained in order for the

researchers to know how to record behaviour in a consistent manner. Behavioural categories

should be operationalised and mutually exclusive and cover all possible behaviours. A pilot

study can be used to check observers are applying the behavioural categories consistently

Explain how to improve internal validity of observations

Internal validity may be a problem if observers are biased. This can be improved by having

more than one observer, averaging data across observers, training the observers, using a pilot

study and using clear behavioural categories

Explain how to improve external validity of observations

External validity: Population validity may be an issue for observational studies, e.g. if only

children are observed from middle-class homes, we will not be able to generalise to all

children. This can be improved by conducting observations with varied participants.

Ecological validity may be low if the controlled observations are used or if participants are

aware they are being watched. This can be improved using naturalistic or covert observation.

.