Lecture 3 - Participant Observation

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Questions and Answers

What is the role of a complete participant in research observation?

Researcher discloses their role to participants.

Researcher observes without engaging with participants.

Researcher's observation role is secondary to participation.

Researcher conceals their role from participants. (correct)

Which observation method focuses on behaviors arising from specific events?

Time-interval observation

Continuous observation

Time-point observation

Event observation (correct)

What is one primary ethical consideration in participant observation research?

Maintaining anonymity of the researcher.

Using technology for data collection.

Obtaining consent from participants. (correct)

The need for consistent observational methods.

Which of the following is NOT a type of observation in ethnography?

Structured observation Signup and view all the answers

What should field notes ideally include according to ethnographic research principles?

Emotions, reactions, and initial analysis. Signup and view all the answers

During which observation method do researchers focus on events centered around a specific time?

Time-point observation Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following roles involves the participant role being secondary to the observation role?

Participant as observer Signup and view all the answers

What is usually required before conducting participant observation in research?

Ethical approval from oversight body Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of unstructured observation?

It focuses on the whole setting rather than specific behaviors. Signup and view all the answers

Which skill is NOT essential for effective observation according to the principles outlined?

Ability to manipulate the research setting. Signup and view all the answers

What must a researcher ensure before entering a research field?

They have a clear understanding of the topic and unit of study. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main ethical concern associated with covert observation?

It does not allow for informed consent from the subjects being observed. Signup and view all the answers

What type of setting refers to research conducted within a community or accessible public area?

Open setting. Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of observer skills focuses on maintaining a neutral stance during observation?

Ability to control personal biases. Signup and view all the answers

What does overt observation entail?

The presence of the researcher is known to the subjects. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect should researchers focus on to avoid violating ethical standards during observation?

They must respect boundaries between the observer and the observed. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes participant observation from structured observation?

Participant observation involves the researcher immersing in the research setting. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary purpose of participant observation in political research?

To develop a scientific understanding of social associations. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about the observer's role in participant observation is true?

The observer's interaction is crucial for understanding the context. Signup and view all the answers

In what way does participant observation allow researchers to enhance their studies?

By involving a wider range of qualitative perspectives. Signup and view all the answers

Which ethical consideration is most crucial in participant observation?

Obtaining informed consent from all participants. Signup and view all the answers

Participant observation emphasizes the importance of understanding the:

Broader cultural context surrounding the participants. Signup and view all the answers

What type of subjects can participant observation effectively study?

Dynamics within specific communities or cohorts. Signup and view all the answers

What key feature sets participant observation apart from conventional surveys?

Its emphasis on observational experiences and immersion. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Participant Observation

Participant observation, also known as ethnography, is a research method.
It can be either participant or non-participant and overt or covert.
Gaining access to the research setting is critical.
Open settings (e.g., communities, social groups) differ from closed settings (e.g., companies, organizations).
Key informants are important but their influence on research direction must be monitored.

Types of Observation

Participant observation is highly unstructured, involving the researcher being immersed in the researched setting.
Structured observation is typically non-participant, taking place in controlled settings (e.g., labs), with the researcher external to the setting.

Researcher Roles

Complete participant: researcher conceals role
Observer as participant: researcher's role is known
Participant as observer: observation role is secondary to the participant role
Complete observer: researcher observes without participating.

Covert vs. Overt Observation

Covert observation ethically problematic as informed consent cannot be obtained
Overt observation: the research participants are aware of the researcher's presence.

Observation Skills

General observational skills (perception, memory) are essential.
Knowledge of the research field and topic is necessary
Prior experience in research is helpful.
Ability to handle difficult situations.
Flexibility and adaptability.
Respect for boundaries between the observer and observed is important.
Getting along with others, following instructions, and controlling biases are crucial.
Honesty, trustworthiness, and awareness of ethical standards are vital.

Data Collection

Ethnography often employs continuous observation, recording events throughout the observation period.
Time-point observation focuses on a specific moment in time.
Time-interval observation focuses on what happens between two points in time.
Event observation focuses on particular behaviours related to an event.
Field notes are crucial and should be detailed, including initial analyses of observations.

Research Design

A clear understanding of the research topic and participants is essential.
Defining the topic and participants (who, what, and relevant aspects about them).
Deciding on the researcher's role (participant observation vs. non-participant).
Determining the time duration and place of research is vital
The skills of the observer are also crucial factors to consider.

Ethical Considerations

Ethical approval is required for research.
Participant observation may require supervision from ethical oversight bodies.
Informed consent is vital, especially concerning sensitive information.
The impact on participant's lives should be considered.
Researchers must truthfully report collected information without deception.
The potential impact of the researcher's presence on the participants should be assessed.
How key informants will be treated needs to be addressed.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Participant Observation

Advantages include a firsthand experience, recording information as it unfolds, and noticing unusual aspects during observation.
Suitable for research topics that would be uncomfortable to discuss directly with participants.
Disadvantages include transparency challenges, potential for observers' presence to seem intrusive, limited attending and observing skills, possible issues with certain participants like children. The potential for subjectivity and the challenge of maintaining objectivity, including going "native", should be acknowledged.

Sources of Error in Participant Observation

Lack of ability or observer inconsistency.
Observer bias.
Lack of knowledge on the part of the observer.
Deception by the observer.
Difficulties in recording and analyzing data.
Observer distortion.

Summary

Participant observation is a valuable qualitative method, potentially uncovering in-depth understandings of specific contexts.
Ethical considerations and awareness of potential biases are crucial to ensure responsible research.
Researchers should document findings (field notes) meticulously.

Readings

Relevant scholarly readings are essential to grasp the intricacies of this research method in detail.

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Description

Explore the intricate methods of participant observation through this quiz. Understand the differences between participant and non-participant observation, and learn about researcher roles in various settings. Test your knowledge about the importance of context and key informants in ethnographic research.