Observational techniques

• Observational research -

  -Non experimental method

  -Involves watching and recording peoples behaviour

  -Used to study a particular behaviours, natural behaviour and behaviour which would be unethical to manipulate
• Naturalistic Observations-

  -Watching and recording behaviour in the setting within which it would normally occur

  -No interference with behaviour
• Controlled Observations-

  -Watching and recording behaviour within a structured environment

  -Likely carried out in a lab

  -Uses standardised procedures, random allocation
• Overt Observation-

  -Participants who are being observed are aware that a researcher is watching their behaviour

  -Behaviour is being watched and recorded with their knowledge
• Covert Observation-

  -Participants who are being observed are not aware that a researcher is watching their behaviour

  -Behaviour is being watched and recorded without their knowledge
• Non- Participant Observation-

  -Researcher stays separate from the group whose behaviour they are observing and watches from outside
• Participant Observations-

  -Researcher joins group whose behaviour they are watching and recording