Research Methods: Designing Observations

Summary

This video explores designing observations in OCR A2 psychology, focusing on two observation methods: event sampling, noting each occurrence of an event, and time sampling, recording behavior at fixed intervals or during set periods. Structured observations involve pre-determined behavioral categories, providing quantitative data but potentially missing unanticipated behaviors. The video introduces observation checklists, coding frames for qualitative data analysis, and content analysis for coding public domain written and filmed materials, emphasizing ethical guidelines adherence.

Takeaways

• 🔍 Designing observations is crucial for the OCR A2 psychology specification.
• 📝 Two primary methods of observation are discussed: event sampling and time sampling.
• 📈 Event sampling involves recording an event each time it occurs, using observation schedules or categories.
• ⏱ Time sampling includes Time Point sampling, where behavior is recorded at fixed intervals, and Time Event sampling, which sets a fixed period for observations.
• 📋 Using time sampling provides a more manageable approach but may miss behaviors when not actively observing, potentially leading to invalid data.
• 📊 Structured observations require behavioral categories, which define what behaviors will be observed and how.
• 📉 The advantage of using categories in observation is the provision of quantitative data for comparison, but it can be restrictive and miss important behaviors not included in the categories.
• 📝 An observation checklist is mentioned as an example of how to organize structured observations.
• 🧩 Coding frames are introduced as a tool for analyzing qualitative data by identifying and categorizing key features of behaviors.
• 📚 Content analysis is explained as a method for coding written or filmed materials, turning qualitative data into quantitative data.
• 📖 Ethical guidelines are highlighted as important in ensuring that the observation of public domain content does not breach privacy or consent.

Q & A

What are the two methods of noting behavior during observations mentioned in the script?

The two methods of noting behavior are event sampling and time sampling.

How does event sampling work in the context of designing observations?

Event sampling involves recording an event each time it occurs. Observers use observation schedules or observation categories for this type of sampling.

What are the two types of time sampling described in the script?

The two types of time sampling are time point sampling, where the observer records what the participant is doing at fixed intervals, and time event sampling, where a fixed period of time is set for observations.

What is structured observation and how does it relate to event sampling?

Structured observation requires behavioral categories and is a form of event sampling where the observer decides beforehand what behaviors will be observed and how they will be observed.

What are the advantages of using categories in observation?

Using categories in observation provides quantitative data that can be analyzed to draw comparisons between participants or groups.

What are the disadvantages of using categories in observation as mentioned in the script?

The disadvantages include a restrictive view of what is happening, as the researcher may miss important behaviors that aren't part of the behavioral categories, potentially resulting in less in-depth data.

Can you provide an example of an observation checklist from the script?

The script mentions an observation checklist but does not provide a specific example. It suggests that viewers look at an example of an observation checklist for further understanding.

What is a coding frame and how is it useful in psychological observations?

A coding frame enables psychologists to analyze qualitative data by observing behaviors, identifying key features, and then coding them. This can be done in stages to categorize and analyze behavior.

How does content analysis fit into the context of observation as described in the script?

Content analysis is a method where an observer codes written material, such as articles or filmed materials, to convert qualitative data into quantitative data.

What ethical consideration is mentioned regarding content analysis in the script?

The script mentions that content analysis cannot breach ethical guidelines because the information being observed is already in the public domain.

What is the final advice given to viewers in the script regarding the presentation?

The presenter encourages viewers to make notes while watching, and to look out for more videos on the topic.