Lesson 3: Observational Techniques 1

Types of Observation Non-Participant Observation = This is when the researcher does not get directly involved with the interactions of the participants. Participant Observation = This is when the researcher is directly involved with the interactions of the participants. 2

Overt Observation = This is when the researcher discloses their identity to the participants and tells them that they are conducting research. Covert Observation = This is when the researcher does not disclose their identity to the participants or tell them that they are conducting research. 3

Naturalistic Observation A researcher observes participants in their own environment. There is no deliberate manipulation of variables. 4

These studies have high ecological validity. Less chance of demand characteristics. Useful when manipulation of the IV is unethical or impractical. It is impossible to control any extraneous variables. You cannot determine cause and effect. There is a risk of observer bias. 5

These are especially problematic if the observation is covert. Confidentiality, and informed consent are ethical issues with this type of research. These are especially problematic if the observation is covert. 6

Controlled Observation A researcher observes participants in a controlled environment. This often allows for manipulation of variables. 7

Cause and effect can be determined. Extraneous variables can be controlled for. Rich and complex data is obtained. Low ecological validity. Risk of observer bias and demand characteristics. 8

Confidentiality and right to withdraw are also issues. Informed consent may be difficult to obtain because if participants know what the researchers are looking for they may change their behaviour. Confidentiality and right to withdraw are also issues. 9

Observer Bias If the observer knows the purpose of the study then they may see what they want to see. Observers need to be reliable, one way to check this is to have two observers and see if their observations correlate with one another. This is known as inter-rater reliability. 10