Overt Unstructured Participant

• What is a practical advantage of overt unstructured participant observation?

  The researcher does not have to worry about the consequences of maintaining an observer role.
• Why is it beneficial for a researcher to ask naïve questions in overt unstructured participant observation?

  It allows the researcher to gather information without raising suspicion.
• Who was Barker studying in her research?

  Barker was studying the Moonies, a deviant religious group.
• What advantage does overt participant observation provide regarding group activities?

  The researcher can avoid taking part in the group's activities.
• What is a practical benefit of recording overt participant observation?

  It is much easier to record observations as notes can be taken openly.
• How does overt participant observation reduce ethical problems?

  There is no deception, and informed consent can be obtained.
• Who gained informed consent from the leaders of the Moonies?

  Barker gained informed consent from the leaders of the Moonies.
• Why is overt participant observation more appropriate when researching schools?

  Because of the age and vulnerability of school children.
• What is a theoretical disadvantage of overt unstructured participant observation?

  It may have low validity due to the Hawthorne effect.
• What is the Hawthorne effect?

  It is when participants change their behavior because they know they are being observed.
• How might teachers behave differently if they know they are being observed?

  Teachers may put on a show or alter their behavior.
• How did X King attempt to minimize the Hawthorne effect?

  By remaining unobtrusive, such as hiding in classrooms.
• What is a practical issue researchers may face in overt participant observation?

  Some groups may not consent to being studied.
• What did Barker have to go through to be accepted by the group she studied?

  Barker went through three complex stages of observation.
• What did Punch discover about the police officers he observed?

  They only let him see what they wanted him to see.
• What ethical consideration must researchers keep in mind when studying schools?

  They must decide what to do with knowledge that could get pupils into trouble.