OBSERVATIONAL TEHCNIQUES

Cards (10)

  • What is a strength of controlled observations?
    can be replicated to check reliability as the researcher is in control of variables and therefore can repeat the method as they wish
  • What is a limitation of controlled observations?
    Low ecological validity as the researcher records the behaviours on an artificial (manipulated) environment with potential outside interference from the researcher.
  • What is a strength of covert observations?
    Investigator effects are unlikely meaning that participants behaviour will be genuine.
  • What is a limitation of covert observation?

    Less ethical as participants are not aware they are taking part and cannot give fully informed consent.
  • What is a strength of overt observations?
    It is possible to inform participants in advance and obtain informed consent.
  • What is a limitation of overt observations?
    Behaviour can be distorted through investigator effects in which the participant changes their behaviour through social desirability bias.
  • What is a strength of participant observations?
    The researcher can obtain in depth data as they are in close proximity to the participants and so are unlikely to overlook or miss any behaviours.
  • What is a limitation of participant observations?
    the researchers presence may influence the participants behaviour due to evaluation apprehension
  • What is a strength of non-participant observations?

    Investigator effects and evaluation apprehension are less likely as the researcher is not visible.
  • What is a limitation of non-participant observations?
    Due to a lack of proximity the researcher may overlook or miss behaviours of interest.