research methods -observation

• Obtaining quantitative data normally involves looking for pre-determined categories of behaviour and recording a tally. Obtaining qualitative data usually involves writing short paragraphs which include as much detail as possible about the behaviour being observed.
• Qualitative data – pick participant to observe and write down as much detail as possible about them and their behaviour for a set period e.g., 5 minutes.

  Quantitative data – create behavioural categories and tally the number of times each behaviour occurs.
• If there is more than one observer, reliability is important. This relates to how consistent each observer is in recording behaviour, this is known as inter-rater reliability. Observers need to be sure there is agreement before collecting the data in what specific behaviours are being recorded. Then both their observations can be compared. The separate sets of data are recorded and tested to see if there is a correlation between them. If there is a correlation, then it is said that the observation has inter-observer reliability, which is a strength.
• Structured – laboratory setting, researcher decided where the observation will take place, at what time, with which participants and uses a standardised procedure.

  OR

  Naturalistic – natural setting, no manipulation by the researcher. These should only occur in circumstances where people expect to be observed.
• Participant – observers are part of what they are observing, involved in the situation, activity, or group.

  OR

  Non-participant – observers are not a part of what is being observed. They sit away from the activity.
• Covert – participants do not know they are being observed.

  OR

  Overt – participants know they are being observed.