Summary
Summary observational techniques - research methods
- Module
- Research methods
- Institution
- AQA
notes on observational techniques within topic of research methods for aqa psych a level
[Show more]
Seller
Follow
Content preview
Observational techniquesObservation – a non-experimental technique, the researcher watches and records
spontaneous/ natural behaviour of ppts without manipulating levels of IV.
Naturalistic observations - Environment hasn’t been manipulated (everything has been left as it
naturally is) observing behaviour is the setting where it would normally take place
Strengths
- High external validity can be generalised to everyday life as done in a natural
environment.
- High ecological validity
Weaknesses
- Lack of control over situation makes replication difficult.
- Uncontrollable extraneous variables that make it more difficult to judge patterns of
behaviour.
- Low ecological validity if participants become aware they are being watched.
- Observer bias and effect internal validity.
Controlled observations – psychologists have manipulated the situation (controlled something)
to observe the effect in a structured environment e.g., lab.
Strengths
- Lack of extraneous variables making replication easier
- Objective and rigorous.
- Reliable standardised procedures.
Weaknesses
- May produce findings that cannot be as readily applied to everyday life (unnatural
behaviour).
- Low mundane realism so low ecological validity.
- Demand characteristics.
Covert observation – behaviour recorded without first obtaining the consent of the
participants, participants are unaware of the focus of the study and their behaviour is observed
in secret.
Strengths
- Removes demand characteristics and ensures behaviour being observed is natural.
- This increases internal validity of the study.
Weaknesses
- Ethical issues to do with consent.
The benefits of buying summaries with Stuvia:
Guaranteed quality through customer reviews
Stuvia customers have reviewed more than 700,000 summaries. This how you know that you are buying the best documents.
Quick and easy check-out
You can quickly pay through credit card for the summaries. There is no membership needed.
Focus on what matters
Your fellow students write the study notes themselves, which is why the documents are always reliable and up-to-date. This ensures you quickly get to the core!
Frequently asked questions
What do I get when I buy this document?
You get a PDF, available immediately after your purchase. The purchased document is accessible anytime, anywhere and indefinitely through your profile.
Satisfaction guarantee: how does it work?
Our satisfaction guarantee ensures that you always find a study document that suits you well. You fill out a form, and our customer service team takes care of the rest.
Who am I buying these notes from?
Stuvia is a marketplace, so you are not buying this document from us, but from seller lolamcohn. Stuvia facilitates payment to the seller.
Will I be stuck with a subscription?
No, you only buy these notes for £7.16. You're not tied to anything after your purchase.
Can Stuvia be trusted?
4.6 stars on Google & Trustpilot (+1000 reviews)
73918 documents were sold in the last 30 days
Founded in 2010, the go-to place to buy revision notes and other study material for 14 years now