Collecting data through observation - Structured observation
3 important questions on Collecting data through observation - Structured observation
What is structured observation?
Structured observation uses a high level of predetermined structure. If you use this method your purpose will be to observe the incidence of particular behaviors, interactions or events and record these systematically. Structured observation is particularly effective at revealing 'the mundane, routine activities that collectively make up those practices of everyday life' (Clarke et al 2009; 348). As such, structured observation may form only a part of your data collection approach because its function is to tell you which things happen, how often and possibly when and in what sequence rather than why they happen.
Where you manage to locate an existing coding schedule that is suitable for your research question and objectives and which is adequately designed to overcome concerns about its reliability and validity, you will be able to enjoy two important advantages, which are they?
1. Its use will save you the need to develop new coding schedule.
2. It will be tried and tested, which may help to make your results and conclusions more reliable and valid as well as comparable to those from its easier use.
2. It will be tried and tested, which may help to make your results and conclusions more reliable and valid as well as comparable to those from its easier use.
The main issues for structured observation relate to aspects of reliability =
- observer error
- informant error
- time error
- observer effects
- informant error
- time error
- observer effects
The question on the page originate from the summary of the following study material:
- A unique study and practice tool
- Never study anything twice again
- Get the grades you hope for
- 100% sure, 100% understanding
Remember faster, study better. Scientifically proven.
