Observer

Definition

In the context of research, an observer is an individual who watches, records, and interprets the behaviors or events occurring within a particular environment. This role is crucial in observational research techniques, where understanding participant behavior in natural settings can yield insights that surveys or experiments may miss. Observers can collect data without interfering with the subjects, allowing for a more authentic representation of behaviors and interactions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Observers can use structured or unstructured approaches when recording data, depending on the research objectives.
2. The presence of an observer can influence participant behavior, a phenomenon known as the observer effect.
3. Observers must remain ethical by maintaining confidentiality and minimizing bias in their interpretations.
4. Observational research can be conducted in various settings, including public places, online environments, or controlled laboratory settings.
5. Data collected by observers can be both qualitative (descriptive) and quantitative (numerical), allowing for diverse analysis techniques.

Review Questions

• What are the different approaches an observer can take when conducting observational research, and how do they impact the data collected?
  • An observer can adopt structured or unstructured approaches while conducting observational research. A structured approach involves predefined criteria and categories for observing behavior, which can lead to more systematic data collection. On the other hand, an unstructured approach allows for flexibility and spontaneity in observations, capturing unexpected behaviors. Both methods significantly impact the richness and type of data collected, influencing the overall findings of the research.
• Discuss the ethical considerations that observers must keep in mind during observational research.
  • Observers must adhere to ethical guidelines to ensure that their research respects participant rights and privacy. This includes obtaining informed consent when necessary, ensuring confidentiality of sensitive information, and avoiding any actions that might manipulate or coerce participants. Additionally, observers should be aware of their biases and strive to minimize their influence on data collection. Ethical considerations are vital for maintaining integrity in research findings and ensuring respect for participants.
• Evaluate how the observer's presence might alter participant behavior and what strategies researchers can use to mitigate this effect.
  • The observer's presence can lead to changes in participant behavior due to the observer effect, where individuals modify their actions because they are being watched. To mitigate this effect, researchers can use techniques such as blending into the environment to reduce visibility or employing unobtrusive measures like hidden cameras or remote observation tools. Another strategy involves conducting preliminary observations without interference to establish a baseline of typical behavior. By using these strategies, researchers aim to capture more authentic participant interactions and reduce potential biases in their findings.

Related terms

Participant Observation:

A research method where the observer becomes part of the group being studied to gain a deeper understanding of their behaviors and interactions.

Ethnography:

A qualitative research method that involves immersing oneself in a community or group to observe and document their culture and practices.

Field Notes:

Detailed notes taken by the observer during or after observation sessions, documenting what was seen, heard, and interpreted to provide context for the research.