Research methods observations

• What is the definition of observational research?

  It is when researchers want to see how individuals behave instead of how they say they do.
• What are the types of observation in research?

  • Covert observation
  • Unstructured observation
  • Structured observation
  • Non-participant observation
  • Participant observation
• What is covert observation?

  It is when the researcher's real identity and purpose are kept concealed from the groups being studied.
• What is unstructured observation?


  It is where the researcher watches freely and records what happens.
• What is structured observation?


  It is where the researcher has a set list of things to look for and makes a tally of them.
• What is participant observation?

  It is when the researcher actually takes part in an event or the everyday life of the group while observing it.
• What is non-participant observation?

  It is when the researcher simply observes the group or event without taking part in it.
• What is the most common type of observational research done by sociologists?

  • Unstructured participant observation
  • Researchers interact with the group and record behaviors of interest
  • Generates largely qualitative data
• What do positivist sociologists prefer in observational research?

  • Structured non-participant observations
  • Generates quantitative data
  • Can be used to find trends and patterns in behavior
• Why might a researcher choose to keep their real identity and purpose a secret from the group they are observing?

  To decrease the likelihood of the Hawthorne Effect, where people change their behavior when they know they are being researched.
• In what circumstances might it be acceptable for researchers to keep their identity secret?

  When studying sensitive groups, such as prisoners, to gain genuine insights.
• What are some issues that arise when conducting participant observations?


  • Getting in: Requires trust and connections
  • Staying in: Risk of becoming too involved or biased
  • Getting out: Loyalty and fear may complicate leaving
• Who studied the Glasgow Gang?

  James Patrick
• What did Ned Polsky study?

  He studied the world of the pardont.
• What did Sarah Thornton study?

  She studied the British clubbing rave scenes.
• What ethical concerns are associated with covert participant observation?

  It can be considered unethical if the information obtained could lead to harm for the subjects involved.
• What is the main advantage of overt participant observation?

  It allows for informed consent and no deception.
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of participant observation?

  Strengths:

  • Builds trust and rapport
  • Useful for sensitive topics
  • Provides rich qualitative data

  
  

  Weaknesses:

  • Time-consuming
  • Potential for researcher bias
  • Ethical concerns with covert methods
• What is non-participant observation?


  It is where researchers take a 'fly on the wall' approach and observe individuals and groups without getting involved.
• What are some weaknesses of non-participant observation?

  Researchers cannot ask questions, and the Hawthorne effect may reduce validity.
• What are the problems of using participant observation in sociological research?

  It can be time-consuming and expensive, requiring significant personal investment from the researcher.
• What did Venkatesh do to understand gang life?

  He spent 7 years living with a gang to gain insights into their world.
• What did Griffin do to study race relations?

  He darkened his skin to experience life as a black man in America.
• What is a significant ethical concern regarding Griffin's research?

  If his identity was revealed, it could lead to harm for the individuals he studied.
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of covert observation?

  Strengths:

  • High validity
  • No Hawthorne effect
  • Rich qualitative data

  
  

  Weaknesses:

  • Ethical concerns
  • Difficult to gain consent
  • Potential for illegal activities
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of overt observation?

  Strengths:

  • Informed consent
  • No deception
  • Less time-consuming

  
  

  Weaknesses:

  • Hawthorne effect
  • Low validity
  • Limited access to certain groups
• How does participant observation provide a deeper understanding of social phenomena?

  It allows researchers to immerse themselves in the group, gaining insights that other methods may not reveal.
• Why is participant observation considered time-consuming?

  Researchers must often leave their usual lives for extended periods to gain insights.
• What is the significance of qualitative data in participant observation?


  Qualitative data provides rich, detailed insights into real-life situations.
• How can researchers combat the issues of expense in participant observation?

  By working in educational settings and using other research methods to supplement their findings.