Observation as a tool of

Data Collection
ANEELA BILAL
 Introduction
The observation method is most commonly used method in
behavioral science.
Observation becomes a scientific tool and the method of data
collection for the researcher, when it serves a formulated research
purpose, is systematically planned and recorded and is subjected to
checks and controls on validity and reliability.
It is also a process of recording the behavior patterns of people,
objects, and occurrences without questioning or communicating with
them.
 Observation involves looking and listening very
carefully. We all watch other people sometimes, but we
don’t usually watch them in order to discover particular
information about their behavior. This is what
observation in social science.
Observation method is a method under which data
from the field is collected with the help of observation
by the observer or by personally going to the field.
 Definitions
Gorman and Clayton define observation studies as those that
“involve the systematic recording of observable phenomena or
behavior in a natural setting.”
MARSHALL and ROSSMAN (1989) define observation as "the
systematic description of events, behaviors, and objects in the social
setting chosen for study.”
 Importance
Observation allows the researcher to study people in their 'natural
setting' without their behavior being influenced by the presence of a
researcher.
Observational data usually consists of detailed information about
particular groups or situations. This kind of data can 'fill out' and provide
a deeper, richer, understanding than survey work which tends to produce
less detailed information about a larger number of people.
Some methods only allow for the study of one individual at a time.
Observation enables the research to study groups of people together, that
is, it allows for the study of interaction between the members of a group.
Steps For An Effective Observation
Determine what needs to be observed

Select participants
Random/Selected

Conduct the observation

(venue, duration, recording materials, take photographs)

Compile data collected

Analyze and interpret data collected

 Types of observation
1. Participant Observation.
2. Non-participant Observation.
3. Structured Observation.
4. Unstructured Observation.
5. Controlled Observation.
6.Uncontrolled Observation
Participant Observation
In this observation, the observer is a part of the phenomenon or group
which observed and he acts as both an observer and a participant.
Example: a study of tribal customs by an anthropologist by taking
part in tribal activities like folk dance. The person who are observed
should not be aware of the researcher’s purpose. Then only their
behavior will be ‘natural.’
Non - Participant Observation
In this method, the observer stands apart and does not participate
in the phenomenon observed. Naturally, there is no emotional
involvement on the part of the observer. This method calls for skill in
recording observations in an unnoticed manner.
Example : use of recording devices to examine the details of how
people talk and behave together.
Structured Observation
Concentrate on a particular aspect or aspects of the variable being
observed, be it a thing, behavior, condition or situation.
Unstructured Observation
The observer does not hold any list of items to be observed.
Controlled Observation
When observation takes place according to pre arranged plans, with
experimental procedure then it is controlled observation generally done in
laboratory under controlled condition.
Uncontrolled Observation
When the observation takes place in natural condition i.e., uncontrolled
observation. It is done to get spontaneous picture of life and persons.
 Advantages of Observation
1. The behavior of human being is exactly observed.
2. The people who cannot speak (Deaf & children)
3. The researcher can observe his subjects for as long as he needs the
time and as many times as he can for greater accuracy and validity
in description and interpretation.
4. Produces Large quantities of data.
5. The observation technique can be stopped or begun at any time.
6. Relative Inexpensive
 Disadvantages of Observation
1. There is a smaller size of sample if the universe covers a very wide area and
the researcher cannot afford to observe a substantial area.
2. Language barrier
3. Cultural barrier
4. Risks involved
5. Researchers are needed to wait for the incident or behavior
6. Difficult to analyze
7. May require training
8. In some cases, the use of observational methods may be unethical, as in
observing people without their knowledge or consent.