Observation

• What does a researcher do in observation?

  Watches or listens to participants and records data
• What is the difference between natural and controlled observation?

  Natural records behavior in its normal setting
• What is a characteristic of natural observation?

  Behavior is recorded where it normally occurs
• How does controlled observation differ from natural observation?

  Researcher manipulates aspects of the environment
• What does covert observation mean?

  Participants are not aware behavior is recorded
• What is overt observation?

  Participants are told in advance about observation
• What distinguishes participant observation from non-participant observation?

  Participant researcher is part of the group
• What is a characteristic of non-participant observation?

  Researcher remains separate from the group
• What are categories of behavior in observation?

  Target behavior broken into observable categories
• What is interobserver reliability?

  Two observers produce the same record of behavior
• How do researchers ensure interobserver reliability?

  They watch at the same time and correlate data
• What are the strengths of observational research?

  • Greater validity based on actual behavior
  • Captures real-life behavior without participant awareness
• What are the weaknesses of observational research?

  • Ethical issues with consent in public places
  • Observer bias affecting validity