Example Of Non Participant Observation

The observational method allowed me to observe a consumer’s actual behaviour rather than the ideal behaviour prescribed by society. The consumers, as a result, were honest in their actions and decisions. The observational method was an ideal way to ease me, a novice in anthropology, into the area of field research. We were instructed to use the non-participant field research method where I was required to observe what consumers did in a natural context without interfering. I felt this was very beneficial because it allowed me to notice things that I normally would not when I would ‘people-watch’ in a café. Therefore, I was able to establish an unbiased idea of consumer behaviour around mid-morning consumption. Unfortunately, this method prevented me from knowing in depth knowledge of what caused this type of behaviour. …show more content…
Non-participant observational research also prevents you from determining whether or not this type of behaviour is the everyday norm or a once off occurrence that could be influenced by timetable, etc. As part of our group we decided that we were going to observe how consumers interact with their mobile device and food. However, when I arrived to my first location I found I had to broaden my observation to include mobile device interaction with food and hot beverages (tea and coffee). This was because beverage consumption was an important component in relation to food consumption during mid-morning that needed to be taken note of. The three different cafes I visited on campus were firstly, the Plaza Café beside the library, secondly, The Stables in the Student Courtyard, and finally, Café Allegro in the Concert Hall. I focused on groups and individuals interaction with regards to food and beverage consumption, and their mobile