PRESENTATION ON

PARTICIPANT
OBSERVATION
Presented by:- DIKSHA KOHLI
Roll No. :- 01
M.ED (2015-17)

Participant Observation

Participant observation is the observation and

participation in a groups activities - in its natural
setting.

It is also known as: ethnography, field studies, and/or

the verstehen approach.

It is based on a grounded theory approach: an

approach that develops a theory as data is collected as
opposed to being predetermined.

A few examples of those who use participant

observations include: researchers, journalists, and law
enforcement.

Types of
Participant Observation

Complete Participation participation and manipulation, i.e.,

disguised observations.

Participant as Observer an attempt to objectively observe

activities of the group.

Observer as Participant in-depth interviews.

Complete Observation experimental and unobtrusive

measures.

** Distinctions cannot always be made between unobtrusive

studies, field studies, and participant as observer types.

Characteristics or Qualities
of Participant Observation

Demands on time and personal cost (personal involvement).

The participant observer must be two dimensional, i.e.,

maintain objectivity despite becoming an insider.

Avoid over-socialization, i.e., going native. For example,

police undercover operations.

Avoid over-identification with the study group and aversion to

it, i.e., remain objective despite personal subjective bias
dont be judgmental.

Procedures of
Participant Observation
There is no one and only method
of participant observation.

Recording methods: field notes/diaries, mnemonics, recordings,

and photographs. Know when and where to do these activities
the primary objective is to observe and listen.
Use with caution, rapport is more important that recording
results, i.e., avoid questions and note taking this makes people
nervous and creates a disturbance within the group setting.

Know the jargon (argot) of the group to be studied in order to

gain access. There is a variety of strategies to gain access, i.e.,
status and gatekeepers are possible sources.

Other Participant Observation

Procedures (Contd)

Identify the true purpose of the study with the group

announcement of intentions.

Snowball sampling develop subjects through

introductions of former subjects, i.e., gatekeepers.

Reciprocity mutual obligation, i.e., what is owed.

Other Participant Observation

Procedures (Contd)

Protect individual identities if possible, i.e.,

pseudonyms or aliases.

Avoid criminal activity.

Validate Findings, i.e., interviews, police and legal

officials, documents, and other case histories.

Some examples include: Skinheads, Idaho Christian

Patriots, Underworld figures, motorcycle gangs, etc.

Advantages of
Participant Observations

Sensitizing verstehen strategy

Less prejudgments

Less disturbing as compared to an experimental design

Greater flexibility

An excellent means of obtaining detailed qualitative data

Natural setting

Disadvantages of
Participant Observations

Time consuming

Expensive

Over-identification or dislike of the group being studied

Problem with gaining access and acceptance

Ethical dilemmas, i.e., privacy, illegal activities - criminality, confidentiality, and

reciprocity

Observer bias or subjectivity

Yields non-quantitative data an analytical issue

THANK YOU