Observations

• Types of observations:

  Covert participants:

  • Researcher takes part but group unaware of research

  Covert non-participant:

  • Researcher observes from distance and group is unaware of research

  Overt participant:

  • Researchers make it clear group is being observed and take part

  Overt non-participant:

  • Researchers do not interfere and group is aware of research
• Advantages of Covert participant observation:

  • Gaining access easier because the researcher does not have to ask for permission.
  • If respondents are not aware of research, they are less likely to act differently.
• Disadvantages of Covert Participant observation:

  • Hard to take notes
  • Pressure on researcher
  • Deception causes ethical issues
  • Access to participants
• Advantages of Covert Non- participant observation:

  • Minimises Hawthorne Effect of researcher
  • High in validity
  • Researcher can observe better
• Disadvantages of Covert Non-participant observation:

  • Lack validity as cannot speak with pupils
  • No right to withdraw
  • Need a cover
• Advantages of Overt Participant observations:

  • Less ethical issues- less likely to withdraw
  • Able to write notes- more valid
  • Objective
• Disadvantages of Overt non participant observation:

  • May alter behaviour
  • Time consuming
  • Data may be bias- not valid
• Example of Covert Non-Participant observation:

  • Tea Room Trade - (Humphrey 1970)
• Example of Overt Participant observation:

  • Gang Leader for a Day - (Sudhir Venkatesh)= observed gang members behaviour.
• Example of Overt Non-participant observation:

  • Zimbardo's Prison Experiment 1971