Observation techniques

• What is the definition of observation in research?

  Non-experimental techniques to record behavior
• What is the main difference between controlled and naturalistic observation?

  Controlled is in a lab; naturalistic is in real-world
• Where does naturalistic observation typically take place?

  In real-world settings like homes or schools
• What does overt observation mean?

  Participants are aware they are being observed
• What is covert observation?

  Participants are unaware of being observed
• What is the role of a participant observer?

  The researcher joins the group being observed
• What is non-participant observation?

  The researcher does not join the group activities
• What are the steps to operationalize behavioral categories?

  • Define the variable clearly
  • Measure it objectively
  • Example: Aggression operationalized as pushes, punches, kicks
• What is time sampling in observational research?

  Recording behavior at set intervals
• How often might a researcher use time sampling?

  Every 10 minutes over an hour
• What is event sampling in observational research?

  Tallying every occurrence of a behavior
• What is inter-rater reliability?

  Agreement between different observers' data
• How is inter-rater reliability assessed?

  By comparing data sets using correlation tests
• What correlation coefficient indicates strong inter-rater reliability?

  A coefficient of 0.8 or stronger
• What are the types of observational methods in research?

  1. Controlled vs. Naturalistic
  2. Overt vs. Covert
  3. Participant vs. Non-Participant