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Research Methods

Observation and mixed methods

  • 3 things to know
  • Papers 1 and 2

Overview

Participant, non-participant, covert and overt observation, ethnography, going native and the observer effect, and triangulation and mixed methods.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

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Key term

What is observation as a research method?

Key term

What is participant observation?

Key term

What is non-participant observation? Give an example.

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

  1. 1

    What is observation as a research method?

    Model answer

    Observation involves a researcher watching and recording behaviour as it happens, usually in its natural setting. Observation shows what people actually do rather than what they say.

  2. 2

    What is participant observation?

    Model answer

    Participant observation is where the researcher joins a group and takes part in its activities while studying it. The researcher sees the group's life from the inside.

  3. 3

    What is non-participant observation? Give an example.

    Model answer

    Non-participant observation is where the researcher watches a group without joining in. A sociologist might sit at the back of a classroom recording how often teachers praise boys and girls.

  4. 4

    What is covert observation?

    Model answer

    Covert observation is where the group being studied does not know it is being researched. The researcher keeps their real identity and purpose secret.

  5. 5

    What is overt observation?

    Model answer

    Overt observation is where the group knows the researcher's identity and purpose. Participants have agreed to be studied.

  6. 6

    What is ethnography?

    Model answer

    Ethnography is the in-depth study of a group's way of life, usually by spending a long period among them. Ball's study of a comprehensive school, based on three years of fieldwork, is an example.

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