Observations

Front 1

What are all the types of observation?

Back 1

--Participation observation.

-- non participant observation

-- overt observation

-- covert observation

-- structured observation

-- unstructured observation

Front 2

Difference between o and covert observations

Back 2

overt - researcher explains research intentions to the group, so they are aware of observation

covert - keep real identity and purpose secret from subjects. IF they participate, they usually pose as a genuine member of the group.

Front 3

Difference between structured and unstructured observations

Back 3

Structured - researcher systematically classifies behaviour they observe into categories.

unstructured - researcher simply records what they see and experience in whatever way they can.

Front 4

Typical characteristics of participation observations?

Back 4

- can either be overt or covert

- Can often involve years of fieldwork

- Observations recorded on field notes

- The observer has to find a role within the group that allows them to study behaviour.

Front 5

Who are observations preferred by?

Back 5

On the whole, Interpretivism BUT both can use them

Front 6

Why do interpretivists use PO?

Back 6

As they allow the researcher to build a strong raport with memebers of the group; which will allow the researcher to obtain detailed and valid qualitative data.

Front 7

Practical advantages of Participation observations?

Back 7

--If overt, the researcher can ask for clarification e.g. if someone uses slang, they can ask the person to clarify what it means.

-- Usually cheap

-- flexibility so researcher can adapt in situations

-- usually receive detailed data

Front 8

Practical disadvantages of participation observations?

Back 8

-- Can be time consuming

-- Researcher requires an abundance of skills

-- Not in control of many variables

-- hard to record data

Front 9

Ethical advantages of participation observation?

Back 9

Findings can lead to more input within a community e.g. Find alot of drug abuse = open a free rehab centre in that area

Front 10

Ethical disadvantages of PO?

Back 10

--If covert, deciet (lie to people)

-- may need gatekeepers permission

Front 11

Theoretical advantages of PO?

Back 11

-- Build a raport

-- verhsten can be obtained

-- high in validity

Detailed, qualitative data

Front 12

Theoretical disadvantages of PO?

Back 12

--Unreliable as they are almost impossible to replicate with the same subjects

--Cannot generalise to the wider population

-- Not standardised so extra time can be used up for no reason

Front 13

Name and study in PO?

Back 13

Devine - observing from a child's POV

Front 14

Details

Back 14

-- observed classrooms + playgrounds in three primary schools in ireland

-- sat at desks with kids and never reported misbehaviour

Stayed in playgrounds during break and avoided mixing in so she could better understand the schools from the childs POV