Structured observations

• Researcher creates a behavioural checklist before the observation in order to code the behaviour. Behaviour can be sampled using time or event sampling.
• Researchers will use a standardised behaviour checklist to record the frequency of those behaviours (collecting quantitative data). The target behaviour is split up into a set of behavioural categories
• The behaviours should:

  • Be observable (record explicit actions)
  • Have no need for inferences to be made
  • Cover all possible components behaviours
  • Be mutually exclusive/ not overlap (not having to mark two categories at the same time)
•  pilot study

  Small scale study carried out before the actual research. It allows the researchers to practise using the behaviour checklist/ observation schedule. not always possible to watch and record every behaviour so researchers use a systematic method of sampling it.