Vanessa Hernandez

In this form of observation, the researcher participates in the situation being studied. Strengths  Combines emic and etic approach  Produced descriptive data  Avoids researcher bias Weaknesses:  Hard to subjectively record data  May take extensive amounts of time to complete  Researcher could lose objectivity

In this form of observation, the researcher does not participate in the situation being studied. Strengths  Easier to subjectively record data  Creates detailed data Weaknesses  May take extensive time to complete  Does not give as in-depth of an understanding of the situation as does participant observation

In this form of observation, the researcher observes the participant in their natural environment. Strengths of naturalistic observation  Ecological validity  Allows collection of otherwise unattainable data Limitations of naturalistic observation  Reactivity of participants  May be problems with checking data  May argue it’s a violation of privacy

Covert- Participants are not aware that they are being observed. Overt-Participants are aware that they are being observed.

 Crane, John, and Jette Hannibal. “Qualitative research: Observations" Psychology: Course Companion. Oxford: Oxford UP, Print.