* Getting you thinking: Extension: Do you think Big Brother is a valid study of human behaviour? “The Channel 5 TV series Big Brother is a form of laboratory-based naturalistic observation” Agree or disagree. Discuss.

* Observational techniques

* Learning objectives : By the end of this lesson you will be able: * To describe what is meant by the following: Naturalistic observation, controlled observation, structured observation, unstructured observation, participant observation, non participant observation, disclosed observation, non disclosed observation. * To evaluate the use of this method.

* Types of observation Read through the types of observation in your research methods booklet. Use textbooks to find an example for each of the types of observation: * Naturalistic * Controlled * Participant * Non participant * Covert * Overt Be prepared to share (act out!) some of these with the class. Extension: What are the limitations of each of the examples you have found (in the context of what they are observing)?

* Overcoming problems with observations * Double blind techniques. * Clear definitions of observed concept. * Pilot study to check observation schedule. * Inter-observer reliability.

*C*C heck your understanding Would you carry out a naturalistic or controlled observation? Why? What in particular would you be observing? Why? Would you carry out an overt or covert observation? Why? Imagine you are carrying out an observational study to investigate how responsive the primary caregiver is to their infant’s needs. Extension: How would you operationalise what you are observing?

What do you need to consider when designing an observation? Discuss! How will you record the data? Tally charts Video recordings How will you address ethical issues? How will you avoid observer bias? Have clear behavioural categories More than one observer for inter- rater reliability Keep observers blind to hypothesis Do you need a pilot study? Why would it be useful? Appropriate behavioural categories When will you sample the behaviour?

*C*C heck your understanding How would you sample the behaviour? Explain why you chose that way. Your DV would be attachment types, what behavioural categories would you include to ensure all observers are clear on what they are watching for? Imagine you have gone to a parent and baby group to observe attachment types shown by the different children. Extension: How would you address ethical issues?

* Learning objectives : You are now able: * To describe what is meant by the following: Naturalistic observation, controlled observation, structured observation, unstructured observation, participant observation, non participant observation, disclosed observation, non disclosed observation. * To evaluate the use of this method.

* Homework Due in next lesson: 1) Find an example of a questionnaire using the internet. Bring it to next lesson. Preparation for next lesson: Add some extra questions to the questionnaire that are investigating the same concept.