Sunday 18 July 2021

What is Observational Research Methods l Types of Observation in Research Methodology l Disadvantages of the Observation Method l Advantages of the Observation Method

 What is Observational Research Methods?

Observation is one method of gathering primary information. Observation is a technique of seeing and hearing an encounter or occurrence that is intentional, systematic, and selective in its use. The use of observation is the most appropriate data collection method in a wide range of situations, such as learning about group interaction, researching population eating patterns, determining a worker's responsibilities, or analyzing the behavior or personalities of an individual. Because the respondents are not coordinated or do not know the answers, it is also appropriate in situations where full and/or accurate information cannot be acquired via asking. It is also appropriate in situations where complete and/or correct information cannot be obtained through asking. In summary, if you are more interested in people's actions than their opinions, or if individuals are so engrossed in the encounter that they are unable to provide objective information about it, observation is the most effective way of collecting the information you need.

Types of Observation

There are two types of Observation

1.Participant Observation
2. Non-Participant Observation

1. Participant's Observation:

The observation of participants happens when you, as a researcher, participate in the activities of a group in the same way that its members do, either with or without their being aware that they are being observed. If you're interested in how the general public reacts to wheelchair users, for example, you might research that. You may observe their responses by putting yourself in a wheelchair and sitting in it. Alternatively, you may want to investigate the lives of prisoners while posing as a prisoner to do this.

2. Non-Participant Observation:

Non-participant observation, on the other hand, is when you do not participate in the activities of the group as a researcher, but instead function as a passive observer, watching and listening to the group's activities and drawing conclusions about their actions. For example, you may want to look at the responsibilities of nurses in a hospital setting. As an observer, you have the ability to watch, follow, and record the events. Conclusions regarding the responsibilities of hospital nurses may be drawn after a large number of observations. In every setting, any occupational group may be monitored in the same manner, regardless of the environment.


Advantages of the Observation Method

Directness 
This is the primary benefit of observation. We can gather data as it happens. Do not question individuals about their conduct or complaints from others.
He or she may just observe and listen. While survey respondents may have unclear or lapsed memories of previous events, the observer is seeing events unfold.

Natural Environment
Unlike other data collecting methods, observation studies depict events as they occur in their natural surroundings. Observation is less restricted and artificial than survey or experiment.

Longitudinal analysis
The observer may perform his or her research over a much longer time than with a survey or experiment since it can be done in a natural environment.

Non-verbal behavior
Data collection on nonverbal behaviour is much better than survey research, experiments, or document examination. Some research concentrate on those who can't provide verbal reports or express themselves well.
Observation is essential for these topics. In addition, there are mentally and physically handicapped individuals.

Method of observation disadvantages

Failure to control
The observational research has limited control over external factors that may influence the results despite its inherent benefit.
The existence of an observer and the human error in observing and collecting data, which may not be within the control of the observer, is likely to skew observations.

Quantification difficulties
Unquantified perceptions are utilised in observational research instead of quantitative measurements used in surveys and experimental investigations.

Size of the sample
Since observational studies are thorough and often subjective, the sample size is limited.
Observation studies also take more time for their in-depth nature than surveys or experiments. This reduces the sample size.

No chance to study the past
The past cannot be known through an observational study. It is also challenging to collect intentions, views, attitudes, and preferences.

Conclusion :
When choosing a technique to use, consider factors such as the goal of your observation, the difficulty of your interaction, and the kind of people you will be seeing. These considerations must be taken into consideration before deciding on a technique for recording your observational findings.

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