Observations

Question 1

What do we not do in an observation that we do in an experiment?

Answer 1

• We do not manipulate an IV and there are no variables whatsoever.

Question 2

What is the difference between a structured and unstructured observation?

Answer 2

• Structured observation - Using a previously decided checklist of behavioural observations.
• Unstructured observation - Using no checklist and simply recording all behaviours observed.

Question 3

What is event sampling and what type of observational technique do you use with it?

Answer 3

•Event sampling is constantly observing behaviour for a set amount of time. It involves using a structured observation technique to record behaviour.

Question 3

What is the difference between a overt and covert observation?

Answer 3

• Overt is where the researcher is honest about their true intention of the research and informs the participants they are being watched.
• Covert is where the researcher hides their true intention of the research and does not inform participants they are being watched.

Question 4

What is time sampling and what observational technique does it use?

Answer 4

•Time sampling is an observation carried out at a set length of time at set intervals (E.g. Every 5 minutes, observe for 1 minute). It involves using an unstructured observational technique to record behaviour.

Question 5

What are the advantages of time sampling?

Answer 5

• Increases concentration as observer is not looking for prolonged periods of time.
• Reduces number of observations made, adds focus & clarity to the observation.

Question 6

What are the disadvantages of time sampling?

Answer 6

• The observations may not be representative as only small periods of time.
• May miss out on some interesting behaviour which is not being recorded.

Question 7

What are the advantages of event sampling?

Answer 7

• Catches all behaviour as looking constantly.

* Useful when behaviour you’re looking for only happens occasionally.

Question 8

What are the disadvantages of event sampling?

Answer 8

• May miss some behaviour as too many things are happening at once.
• Difficult to concentrate and catch all behaviour for prolonged periods of time.

Question 9

What is the difference between participant and non-participant observation?

Answer 9

• Participant observations are where the researcher takes part in whatever activity they are observing.
• Non-participant observations are where the researcher does not participate in the activity they are observing and simply observes.

Question 10

What are the advantages of using a structured observation?

Answer 10

• Produces quantitive data which is very easy to analyse and record.
• Provides focus to your observation for the researcher to follow and watch for the specific behaviour.

Question 11

What are the disadvantages of a structured observation?

Answer 11

• It can lead to researcher bias as the categories can be vague and the researcher will see what they want to see.

Question 12

What are the advantages of a covert observation?

Answer 12

• High ecological validity due to the same social context they would usually be, leading to natural behaviour.

Question 13

What are the disadvantages of a covert observation?

Answer 13

• Limited control over extraneous variables.
• Difficult to replicate leads to it being difficult to generalise to another setting.
• May lead to observer bias and assumptions.

Question 14

What are the disadvantages of an unstructured observation?

Answer 14

• Hard to accurately record everything that happens.

* Hard to analyse as the data will be very qualitative.

Question 15

What are the advantages of an unstructured observation?

Answer 15

• Observation can record every piece of data he sees easily on the day as there are no categories.

Question 16

What are the advantages of an overt observation?

Answer 16

• Ethical issues resolved.

* Presence of observer becomes habituated after a while (they are no longer noticed).

Question 17

What are the disadvantages of an overt observation?

Answer 17

• Behaviour may chance due to observer bias of having the presence of an observer there.

Question 18

What are the advantages of participant observation?

Answer 18

• Higher ecological validity.
• Participation allows for a deeper understanding for the observer.
• May observe behaviour that may usually be hidden from outsiders.

Question 19

What are the disadvantages of participant observation?

Answer 19

• Difficult to record data while participating.
• Group membership can lead to researcher bias.
• Presence of observer may lead to observer bias & demand characteristics.

Question 20

What are the advantages of non-participant observation?

Answer 20

• Can take notes easily.
• No researcher effects.
• Lower chance of demand characteristics.