Observational techniques

Question 1

what are naturalistic observations

Answer 1

watching and recording behaviour in the setting within which it would normally occur

Question 2

What are controlled observations

Answer 2

watching and recording behaviour within a structure environment

Question 3

what are covert observations

Answer 3

participants behaviour is watched and recorded without their knowledge or consent

Question 4

what are overt observations

Answer 4

participants behaviour is watched and recorded with their knowledge and consent

Question 5

what are participant observations

Answer 5

researcher becomes a member of the group whose behaviour they are watching

Question 6

what are non-participant observations

Answer 6

researcher remains outside of the group whose behaviour they are watching and recording

Question 7

what is the evaluation of naturalistic observations

Answer 7

• high external validity - can be generalised
• behaviour is studied within the environment it usually happens
• replication is difficult

Question 8

what is the evaluation of controlled observations

Answer 8

• produce findings not easily as generalisable
• low external validity
• replication is easier

Question 9

what is the evaluation of covert observation

Answer 9

• removes demand characteristics
• increased sight into the study - high external validity

Question 10

what is the evaluation of overt observations

Answer 10

• more ethically acceptable
• but are aware they are being observed so may act differently

Question 11

what is the evaluation of participant observations

Answer 11

• researcher can experience the situation as pps do
• increased insight
• increase external validity
• lose objectivity

Question 12

what is the evaluation of non-participant observations

Answer 12

• researcher can maintain an objective psychological distance
• may lose valuable insight