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Research Methods

Observations, case studies and correlations

  • 3 things to know
  • Components 01 and 02

Overview

Naturalistic, controlled, overt, covert, participant and non-participant observation, case studies, and positive, negative and zero correlations on scatter diagrams.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

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Key term

What is the difference between an overt and a covert observation?

Key term

Why must a correlation use quantitative data?

Key term

On a scatter diagram, the points form a narrow band rising from bottom left to top right. What does this show?

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

  1. 1

    What is a naturalistic observation?

    Model answer

    A naturalistic observation records behaviour in its normal setting, such as children in a playground, without the researcher interfering. Behaviour is natural, so ecological validity is high.

  2. 2

    What is a controlled observation?

    Model answer

    A controlled observation records behaviour in a setting the researcher has arranged, often a laboratory with a one-way mirror. Variables are controlled, so the observation is easier to repeat.

  3. 3

    What is the difference between an overt and a covert observation?

    Model answer

    In an overt observation, participants know they are being watched. In a covert observation, participants do not know they are being watched. Overt observation is more ethical, but people may change how they behave.

  4. 4

    Give one strength and one weakness of covert observation.

    Model answer

    A strength is that participants behave naturally, because they do not know they are being observed. A weakness is the ethical problem that participants cannot give informed consent.

  5. 5

    What is a participant observation?

    Model answer

    A participant observation is one where the researcher joins the group being studied. The researcher gains insight from the inside but may lose objectivity.

  6. 6

    What is a non-participant observation?

    Model answer

    A non-participant observation is one where the researcher watches from outside without joining in. The researcher stays more objective but may miss what behaviour means to the group.

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