SSCI 2900U Lecture Notes - Lecture 6: Field Experiment, Participant Observation
1 Sep 2016
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Document Summary
Lecture 6, structured observation, ssci 2900u research methods, june 2nd 2016. Structured observation is a technique where a researcher follows explicitly formulated rules for observing, categorizing and recording behaviour. One of its main advantages is the emphasis on the direct observation of behaviours. In contrast, in survey research behaviour must be inferred from what the respondent reports. Eliminates some problems found in survey research. Misunderstanding the meaning of the terms used in the survey. Problems of memory: what was done, where it was done, etc. Ex: people may underestimate the number of alcoholic drinks they consume in a typical week. Threatening or embarrassing questions not answered sincerely. How people say they would behave vs how they actually behave. Immersion in a particular social setting for an extended period of time. To determine meanings that people give to their environment & behaviour. Observer does not take part in the activities of the observed group.
