Observational Techniques - Three Approaches

Three Approaches

Generally, there are three types of observational research:

  • Covert observational research - The researchers do not identify themselves. Either they mix in with the subjects undetected, or they observe from a distance. The advantages of this approach are: (1) It is not necessary to get the subjects’ cooperation, and (2) The subjects’ behaviour will not be contaminated by the presence of the researcher. Some researchers have ethical misgivings with the deceit involved in this approach.
  • Overt observational research - The researchers identify themselves as researchers and explain the purpose of their observations. The problem with this approach is subjects may modify their behaviour when they know they are being watched. They portray their “ideal self” rather than their true self. The advantage that the overt approach has over the covert approach is that there is no deception (see PCIA-II; Holigrocki, Kaminski, & Frieswyk, 1999, 2002).
  • Researcher Participation - The researcher participates in what they are observing so as to get a finer appreciation of the phenomena.

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