PSYC 217 Chapter Notes - Chapter 6: Naturalistic Observation, Participant Observation, Scientific Method
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Empirical or quantitative approach: exploring and understanding behaviour involves the scientific method: developing theories, generating hypotheses to test those theories, designing and running experiments, operationally defining variables, collecting data, etc. Both are useful in their own ways; a quantitative report gives a more numerical report whereas a qualitative report may describe the themes the researchers noticed both give useful data. Naturalistic observation demands that a researcher immerse themselves in a particular natural setting/field. The observations are typically made over an extended period of time using a variety of informational collection techniques. If qualitative approach: observe everything, the setting, the patterns of the personal relatio(cid:374)ships, people"s rea(cid:272)tio(cid:374)s to e(cid:448)e(cid:374)ts and so on - without a hypothesis in mind. The goal is to provide a complete and accurate picture so the researcher need clear and precise notes: observe key events. Interview people: talk to people, examine documents produced in the setting, such as newsletters, emails, text messages, or manuals.
