Observational Techniques

• What is naturalistic observation?

  Watching and recording behaviour in the setting where it normally takes place
• What is controlled observation?

  Watching and recording behaviour in a structured environment, e.g., lab setting
• What is overt observation?

  Participants are watched and their behaviour is recorded with their knowledge
• What is covert observation?

  Participants are unaware that their behaviour is being watched and recorded
• What is participant observation?

  The researcher who is observing is part of the group being observed
• What is non-participant observation?

  The researcher observes from a distance and is not part of the group being observed
• What are the strengths of observational techniques?

  • High ecological validity
  • High external validity as done in a natural environment
  • Researcher can focus on a particular aspect of behaviour
  • More control over extraneous and confounding variables
  • Easy replication
  • Ethically acceptable as informed consent is given
• What are the limitations of observational techniques?

  • Low ecological validity if participants know they are being watched
  • Difficult replication
  • Uncontrolled confounding and extraneous variables
  • Unnatural behaviour in structured environments
  • Low mundane realism
  • Demand characteristics present
  • Ethical issues due to lack of informed consent
• Why does participant observation have high internal validity?

  Natural behaviour is recorded
• What is participant reactivity?

  When participants try to make sense of the situation, affecting their behaviour
• What ethical issues are presented by covert observation?

  No informed consent is given, invading participants' privacy
• How does participant observation affect the researcher's objectivity?

  The researcher may lose objectivity by identifying too strongly with participants
• How does non-participant observation affect the researcher's objectivity?

  The researcher can be more objective as they are less likely to identify with participants
• What is observer bias in observational research?

  It occurs when the observer's stereotypes affect their observations
• What valuable insight might be lost in non-participant observation?

  Some valuable insights may be missed due to lack of direct involvement