L9 Observation

• What is the definition of observation studies?


  A researcher watches or listens to participants engaging in a behavior.
• What are the types of observation in research?

  1. Naturalistic vs Controlled
  2. Covert vs Overt
  3. Participant vs Non-participant
• What is a naturalistic observation?


  Behavior is recorded in a place where it normally occurs.
• What is a controlled observation?


  The experimenter controls parts of the study.
• What does covert observation mean?


  Participants are not aware their behavior is being recorded.
• What does overt observation mean?


  Participants are told in advance that they are in the study.
• What is a participant observation?


  The researcher becomes part of the group to observe them closely.
• What is a non-participant observation?


  The researcher observes from afar.
• What is the purpose of categorizing behavior in observation studies?


  To break down target behavior into observable units.
• What is inter-observer reliability?


  It is when more than one observer records the information to ensure accuracy.
• What does high inter-observer reliability indicate?


  Records by all observers are the same or very similar.
• What does low inter-observer reliability indicate?


  Records by all observers are very different and not considered accurate.
• How can researchers ensure high inter-observer reliability?


  • All researchers have the same categories of behavior
  • All observers should watch the same participants/behaviors
  • Observers should compare recorded data and discuss differences
• What are the advantages of observation?

  • high ecological validity
  • Reduced demand characteristics because of natural environment
• What are disadvantages of Observation?

  • Observers do not know why the behavior occurred so further research is needed
  • Time consuming