Lesson 07: OBSERVATION
Observation
Observationis the active acquisition of information from a primary source. In living beings, observation employs the senses. In science, observation can also involve the recording of data via the use of instruments. The term may also refer to any data collected during the scientific activity.
Overt and Covert Observation
- Observation can be overt when everyone knows that they are being observed.
- Observation can be covert when nobody knows that they are being observed.
- The benefit of covert observation is that people behave naturally if they do not know they are being observed.
- However overt observations are preferred due to ethical problems.
Participation of the Observer
Participating role: when the observer takes part in activity and observes it as well.
Non-participating role: when the observer does not take part in activity and only observe it.
Conducting Observation
- Observations of others offer many possibilities for learning. Through observations, it is possible to discover causes of behavior, to increase acceptance of individual variations in growth and development, and interact with others on a more meaningful level.
- There are several observation techniques, such as a running record, factual record time sampling, checklists, hypothetical statement supported by facts, and others
Merits of Observation
- Direct
- Independent
- Natural
Demerits of Observation
- Observer’s bias.
- Effect of observer.
- Time consuming.
- Less understanding.
Multiple Choice Questions
Observation
- Observation involves the active acquisition of information from:
- a) Secondary sources
- b) Primary sources
- c) Online databases
- d) Fictional accounts Answer: b) Primary sources
- In science, observation can involve the use of:
- a) Opinions
- b) Stories
- c) Instruments
- d) Imaginary data Answer: c) Instruments
Overt and Covert Observation
- Overt observation means:
- a) Observing in a hidden manner
- b) Observing without any instruments
- c) Everyone knows they are being observed
- d) Observing in a laboratory setting Answer: c) Everyone knows they are being observed
- One benefit of covert observation is:
- a) Ethical transparency
- b) Natural behavior of subjects
- c) Easier data recording
- d) Increased interaction with subjects Answer: b) Natural behavior of subjects
- Why are overt observations preferred?
- a) They are easier to conduct
- b) They avoid ethical problems
- c) They require fewer resources
- d) They provide more accurate data Answer: b) They avoid ethical problems
Participation of the Observer
- When the observer takes part in the activity being observed, it is called:
- a) Non-participating role
- b) Passive observation
- c) Participating role
- d) Covert observation Answer: c) Participating role
- In a non-participating role, the observer:
- a) Influences the activity
- b) Does not take part in the activity
- c) Records data inaccurately
- d) Acts as a leader in the activity Answer: b) Does not take part in the activity
Conducting Observation
- One of the possibilities for learning through observation is:
- a) Decreasing acceptance of individual variations
- b) Discovering causes of behavior
- c) Limiting interactions with others
- d) Reducing understanding of growth and development Answer: b) Discovering causes of behavior
- Which of the following is an observation technique?
- a) Hypothetical record
- b) Running record
- c) Fictional sampling
- d) Imaginary checklist Answer: b) Running record
Merits of Observation
- One merit of observation is that it is:
- a) Indirect
- b) Biased
- c) Natural
- d) Artificial
- Which of the following is NOT a merit of observation?
- a) Direct
- b) Independent
- c) Observer’s bias
- d) Natural
Demerits of Observation
- One demerit of observation is:
- a) Observer’s bias
- b) Objectivity
- c) Natural behavior
- d) Directness
- Which of the following is considered a time-consuming aspect of observation?
- a) Quick data collection
- b) Immediate results
- c) Detailed recording and analysis
- d) Minimal engagement
Click here to Join