While the advantages and disadvantages apply to both types of studies, their impact and importance may not be the same across the two. There are a number of advantages and disadvantages to direct and participant observation studies. The data from these interviews can become part of field notes or may consist of separate interview transcripts. The practice of participant observation, with its emphasis on developing relationships with members, often leads to both informal, conversational interviews and more formal, in-depth interviews.Frequently, researchers keep a diary, which is often a more intimate, informal record of the happenings within the setting.The researcher takes notes of his/her observations and experiences and later develops them into detailed, formal field notes. Field notes are the primary type of data.As the ethnographer gains the confidence and trust of the members, many will speak and behave in a natural manner in the presence of the ethnographer.ĭata from participant observation studies can take several forms: The ethnographer, who often lives among the members for months or years, attempts to build trusting relationships so that he or she becomes part of the social setting. It is now the principal research method used by ethnographers - specialists within the fields of anthropology and sociology who focus on recording the details of social life occurring in a setting, community, group, or society. It was originally developed in the early 20th century by anthropologists researching native societies in developing countries. Participant observation is a field research method whereby the researcher develops an understanding of a group or setting by taking part in the everyday routines and rituals alongside its members. Conducting direct observation in private or closed settings - without the knowledge or consent of members - is more likely to raise ethical concerns. Direct observation as a research method is most appropriate in open, public settings where anyone has a right to be or congregate.Rather, it may be an initial approach to understanding a setting, a group of individuals, or forms of behavior prior to interacting with members or developing interview protocols. ![]() Direct observation is not necessarily an alternative to other types of field methods, such as participant observation or qualitative interviews.Data collected through direct observation may include field notes, checklists and rating scales, documents, and photographs or video images.The observer does not actively engage the subjects of the study in conversations or interviews, but instead strives to be unobtrusive and detached from the setting.Other features of direct observation include: ![]() Structured observation, on the other hand, is a technique where a researcher observes people and events using a guide or set protocol that has been developed ahead of time. Observations are recorded holistically and without the aid of a predetermined guide or protocol. Unstructured observations involve the researcher observing people and events and recording his/her observations as field notes. The observations may be unstructured or structured. ![]() Direct observation is a method of research where the researcher watches and records the activities of individuals or groups engaged in their daily activities.
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