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All 10 Flashcards — Observational methods
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Question
What is an observation?
Answer
A method that studies behaviour by watching and systematically recording what people do.
Question
Naturalistic vs controlled observation?
Answer
Naturalistic = real setting (high ecological validity); controlled = set-up situation (more control).
Question
Covert vs overt observation?
Answer
Covert = people don't know they're watched; overt = they know.
Question
Participant vs non-participant observation?
Answer
Participant = the researcher joins the group; non-participant = watches from outside.
Question
What is a coding scheme?
Answer
A clear definition of what behaviours to count, making observation systematic.
Question
What is the observer effect?
Answer
People changing their behaviour because they know they are being watched.
Question
One strength of observation?
Answer
Captures real behaviour directly, often with high ecological validity.
Question
One limitation of observation?
Answer
It shows what people do, not why, and can suffer observer bias.
Question
How do you reduce observer bias?
Answer
Use a clear coding scheme and a second observer (inter-rater reliability).
Question
Which concept does observation link to?
Answer
Measurement — it turns behaviour into recordable, countable data.
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Research methodology
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