The Observation Methods Used When Conducting Research Essay

1. Introduction Various methods are used when conducting research. The choice of method depends on the objective of the study and the most appropriate or effective way of accessing the necessary data. For this assignment I chose the observation method. I will begin by providing a description of the method and outline its various strengths and weaknesses. After that, the strategies used to analyse the data will also be outlined. Following that I will discuss how quality data can be achieved and finally, how ethical issues can be addressed in observation. 2. The observation methods 2.1 Definition of the method Observation is a common tool used for data collection in primary research. Podmore (2006, p.14) states that observation can be defined as â€Å"the systematic watching and noting of people or phenomena†. Similarly, Cohen, Manion and Morrison (2011) point out that observation is a method that provides the researcher with the chance of collecting ‘live’ data in a situation where something happens naturally. On a separate note, Sharp (2012) illustrates that in an educational context, observation relies on capturing the dynamics and complexities of particular events and/or activities. In addition to this, he points out that observation requires being able to both hear and see simultaneously. Therefore, observation could be seen as a process or an activity that occurs while the observer perceives, listens and notes specific behaviours or changes. Morrison (1993) introduces fourShow MoreRelatedThe Effects Of Technology On Classroom Practices And Student Outcomes1564 Wor ds   |  7 PagesINTRODUCTION When planning and conducting research, there are many elements which need to be considered to ensure it is ethically sound. The aim of the research should produce reasonable benefits in order for its conduction, acceptable research methods should be used to obtain data, literature and prior studies should be examined during planning, the safety and welfare of all participants should be ensured at all times and the research should be conducted in an ethical manner (National Health andRead MoreFactors That Affect The Mental Process964 Words   |  4 Pages Conducting behavioral research is an important aspect in regards to studies because the research gathered can assure behavioral characteristics are correct and correlate to the study. When conducting research, it is imperative that we manage systematic and careful observations. It is important to know that although research is used to gather information, it may not yield accurate results. Some observations that are collected by rese archers may conflict with one another however; this is vital dataRead MorePhilosophy627 Words   |  3 Pages1–3 Methods of Research Research, systematic inquiry aimed at the discovery of new knowledge, is a central ingredient of the scientific method in psychology. It provides the key to understanding the degree to which hypotheses (and the theories behind them) are accurate. Just as we can apply different theories and hypotheses to explain the same phenomena, we can use a number of alternative methods to conduct research. In this exercise, you will learn more about several methods of research thatRead MoreCollaborative Narrative Reflection : Qualitative Research758 Words   |  4 PagesCollaborative Narrative Reflection Qualitative Research Methods provided insight and experience into field research and the issues experienced in various areas of study, such as: claims, validity, trustworthiness, in-depth field work, data collection, and analysis. Furthermore, the course provided framework for different methodologies within qualitative research that will create an understanding as students move into the next phase of the doctoral program. Some of the methodological designs discussedRead MorePrimary vs. Secondary Research Essay1108 Words   |  5 PagesPrimary vs. Secondary Research When conducting research, when is it conducive to use primary research over secondary research and vice versa? Both research techniques are viable and beneficial. They each have purpose and can be used as a marketing research template when conducting research. Both techniques are equipped with tools that can be used to guide a researcher through the research process. If these tools are properly adhered to, the research process can be seamless and quite effective.Read MoreThis Essay Will Evaluate The Use Of Observation As A Method1388 Words   |  6 Pagesuse of observation as a method of study within psychology. Initially, the essay will discuss the two traditional methods of investigation which are experimentation and observation, before undertaking a deeper examination of the observational method itself. It will then consider where the use of the observational method has proven successful, with supporting evidence of research in which it played a key role. In closing, the limitat ions of the observational method in psychological research will beRead MoreResearch Methods Of Health And Social Care1726 Words   |  7 Pages Research Methods in Health and Social Care Throughout research in Health and social care settings, there are many implications with the research, which takes place. Many research methods include ethical issues which have to be considered when conducting research. Ethical issues need to be considered when research is being conducted, in all methods of conducting the research information. One method of research is using interviews. For example, when using interviews in a care home, when conductingRead MoreFive Identifications of Research Methods809 Words   |  4 Pagesidentifications of research methods are naturalistic observation, survey method, case study, correlational design, and the experimental method. Each other research methods listed were used in an extensive amount of studies. Naturalistic observation is a research method usually used by psychologists and other social scientists. This technique involves observing subjects in their natural environment. This type of research is often used in situations where conducting lab research is unlikely, costRead MoreThe Effect Of Media On Young Girls And Their Self Esteem1590 Words   |  7 PagesMegan Jones Qualitative Research Project The influence media has on young girls and their self-esteem The media and advertisements are meant to influence our everyday lives in society. Young girls are being exposed today more than ever to the over sexualized images of women within the media, advertisements and in pop culture. Young girls are seeing these types of images everyday either in magazines, television shows, movies or fashion. The research questions I propose to explore: â€Å"Are the imagesRead MoreAn Observational Study On Human Behavioral Studies852 Words   |  4 Pagesstudies are best used for human behavioral studies. An experiment involves manipulating one variable to determine if changes in one variable cause changes in another variable. Experiments are conducted in an attempt to predict occurrences. A survey is a data collection tool used to gather information about a particular product or issue. Consumers voluntarily provide feedback on a product or service to a researcher that is later analyzed. Conducting a survey can lead to an observation or experiment,