7.2.3 Participant and Non-Participant Observation

• What distinguishes Non-Participant Observation from other observational methods?

  Researchers do not interact with the group
• What is a key advantage of non-participant observation?

  Objectivity
• Why is participant observation considered time-consuming?

  It requires time to integrate into a group.
• How does non-participant observation reduce ethical risks?

  It minimizes interactions that could breach privacy
• What is the role of the researcher in participant observation?

  Active participant in the group
• What does non-participant observation help to maintain?

  A neutral perspective
• What are the safety and ethical concerns of participant observation?

  Risks to well-being and privacy of others.
• Why is participant observation considered to provide deeper insights?

  Because you're part of the group
• What are the main advantages of non-participant observation?

  • Objectivity: Less biased observations
  • Efficiency: Saves time in data collection
  • Reduced Ethical Risk: Minimizes privacy issues
• How does the inability to ask questions affect non-participant observation?

  It limits understanding of group dynamics
• In what scenario might a researcher use Participant Observation?

  Studying youth culture in a skateboarding club
• What subtle signs might be missed in non-participant observation?

  Non-verbal cues from observed individuals
• What is a consequence of missing cues in non-participant observation?

  Inability to notice a student needing help
• What is a limitation of non-participant observation regarding clarification?

  You can't ask questions for deeper understanding
• How does participant observation enhance understanding of a group's culture?

  • Allows firsthand experience of dynamics
  • Provides insights into real workings
  • Captures nuances missed from outside
• How does interaction with participants differ between participant and non-participant observation?

  High interaction in participant, minimal in non-participant
• What are the key features of Participant Observation?

  • Active participation in the group
  • Direct observation of behaviors
  • Interaction with participants
• How does non-participant observation enhance objectivity?

  It reduces bias by keeping observers separate
• How does being a participant affect objectivity in observations?

  It can cloud judgment and analysis.
• How might a researcher study a tech startup using non-participant observation?

  • Observe meetings and interactions
  • Remain in an external setting
• What is the significance of the researcher becoming a member of the group in Participant Observation?

  It allows for direct observation and interaction
• What is a disadvantage of non-participant observation regarding context?

  Limited understanding of behavior reasons
• How do researchers engage in Participant Observation?

  By actively participating in the group studied
• Why is non-participant observation considered efficient?

  It allows observation without group integration