Observation Design

Which two techniques ensure observations are systematic and objective?

1) Behavioural Categories

2) Sampling Procedures

Explain Behavioural Categories

A behavioural category involves dividing a target behaviour into a subset of behaviours. They

should be:

• Objective (not requiring personal interpretation).

• Operationalised

• Observable

• Unambiguous (each behaviour can only fit into one category).

This can be done using a behaviour checklist, rating scales or a coding system

Behavioural categories would standardise the observation and result in greater reliability

(consistency). Categories provide a structured framework for collecting data which means

that is easier and quicker to analyse

Appropriate behavioural categories provide a clear focus for the researcher and can result in

greater reliability (consistency). Categories provide data that is easier to analyse

Name the two different types of Sampling Procedures

• Event

• Time

Explain Event Sampling

: An observer records target behaviour(s) whenever they occur in a target

individual or individuals. The observer records the number of times a particular behaviour

is demonstrated on the behavioural checklist.

o For example, observers might record the number of shoves, kicks, and punches on a

behavioural checklist during a school playtime.

Evaluate the strength of Event Sampling

: The observer can record a variety of behaviours that change frequently

so behaviours will normally not be missed unlike with time sampling

Evaluate the limitation of Event Sampling

It can be difficult to accurately record behaviour if too many target

behaviours are shown at once or if behaviour changes rapidly this can reduce the

validity of the observation

Explain Time Sampling

: An observer records target behaviour(s) at set time points during a

specified period. At specific time intervals the observer will tick or mark categories from

the behavioural checklist according to the behaviour shown. Any behaviours that occur

between time points are ignored and not recorded.

o For example, whilst recording the social behaviour of a child during a 10-minute

break, at every 30 seconds, one or more relevant behavioural categories are tallied.

Evaluate the strength of Time Sampling

The observer has time to record what they have seen which means the

observation is easier to manage if a lot of behaviours are occurring throughout the

set observation time.

Evaluate the strength of Time Sampling

Behaviours that change between time points are missed and not

recorded therefore observations may therefore not be representative