Observations A01

• Naturalistic observation

  • observation of behaviour in participants own environment
• Structured observation

  • Observation in a researcher controlled environment 
• Participan observation

  • a form of observation where the researcher takes an active role in situation being observed 
• Non participant observation

  • a form of observation where the researcher observes behaviour of others but does not form form part of group study 
• Covert observation

  • a form of observation were the participants do not know they are being observed 
• Overt observation

  • a form of observation where those being observed are aware of the presents of an observer 
• Weakness of naturalistic observation: Difficulty gaining information especially specific information 
• Weakness of structured observation: Difficulty to see if behaviour would be the same in a real life situation 
• Weakness in participant observation: difficulty taking notes and recording data
• Weakness in non participant observation: Participants behaviour may be affected due to presence of observer 
• Weakness in covert observation : Problematic in ethical terms due to participants not being aware
• Weakness in overt observation: Participants may change behaviour when they know they are being observed
• Strength in naturalistic:Gains real insight into a person’s behaviour in a real life situation 
• Strength in structured observation :Easier to gain numerical data from structured observations, more reliable than naturalistic
• Strength in participant observation : No stranger involved could impact how participants react in certain situations, might picked up data missed by other methods
• strength in non participant observation : Allow better recording of data
• Strength in covert observation: Unlikely for participant to change behaviour making the observations more valid
• strength In overt : Enables participants the ability to consent