Observational Techniques

• Covert Observations


  An undisclosed observation and consists of observing people without their knowledge. P's may be informed of their involvement after the study is over
• Overt Observations


  Overt=open. Observations are open and the participants know/are aware that they are being observed.
• Participant Observation


  When the person conducting the observation is taking part in the activity being observed
• Non-Participant Observations 


  The person who is conducting the observation does no participate
• Naturalistic Observations 


  When the observation is carried out in an unaltered setting, the observer will not interfere with the setting whatsoever.
• Controlled Observations


  Conducted under strict conditions eg a lab. Extraneous variables are fully controlled in this type of observation
• Structured Observations 


  Will organise data into behavioural categories
• Un-structured observations


  Involves every instance of the observed behaviour being recorded and described in as much detail as possible.
• Time Sampling


  Where an observer records behaviour at prescribed intervals
• Event Sampling 


  Where an observer records the number of times that the target behaviour occurs