observational design

• Unstructured observation

  • More richness and depth of detail
  • Produces qualitative data which is more difficult to record & analyse
  • Greater risk of observer bias e.g. only record 'catch the eye' behaviours
• Structured observation

  • Easier as is more systematic
  • Quantitative data is collected which is easy to analyse and compare with other data
  • There is less risk of observer bias
  • Not much depth of detail
  • Difficult to achieve high inter observer reliability as filling the predetermined lists in is subjective
• When designing the observation, the observer has to decide the exact behaviour that they are looking for and how it will be recorded