The observation direct is a method of data collection that consists of observing the object of study within a particular situation. This is done without intervening or altering the environment in which the object unfolds. Otherwise, the data obtained would not be valid.
This method of data collection is sometimes used where other systems (such as surveys, questionnaires, etc.) are not effective.
For example, it is advisable to use direct observation when what is desired is to evaluate the behavior for a continuous period of time.
At the moment of direct observation, one can proceed in two ways: covertly (if the object does not know that it is being observed) or manifestly (if the object is aware of being observed).
However, the second method is not widely used, since people could behave differently by being monitored.
Characteristics of direct observation
Not intrusive
Direct observation is characterized by being non-intrusive. This means that the observed object unfolds without being disturbed by the observer.
Therefore, the data obtained through this method are recognized and have a reputation in the area of research.
Non-participation of the observer
In direct observation, the observer adopts a low profile role as if it were a fly on the wall. For this reason, you should not make suggestions or comments to participants.
Long duration
Direct observation studies usually last more than a week. This is done for two reasons. First, to ensure that the object is comfortable with the observer and acts naturally.
Secondly, to be able to obtain all the necessary data for the investigation that is carried out.
Objective and subjective results
The results obtained through this method can be both objective and subjective.
Objectives involve numbers (for example, the time it takes the subject to do some activity), while the subjective ones include impressions (for example, the anxiety that some activity generated in the object).
Need for Few Observers
Direct observation offers advantages that have no other methods of data collection. The most relevant is that it allows studying the interaction of large groups without the need to increase the number of observers: a single researcher can study a group of 10 people.
Types of direct observation
Direct observation can be of two types: covert and self-evident. Concealed observation is the most used of the two. Said method consists in observing the object without it knowing that it is being observed.
Manifest observation occurs when the object being observed is informed. This method is not often used because the"Hawthorne effect"could occur.
This effect is that people can behave differently when they are aware that they are being observed. Then, the data obtained would not be reliable.
Other authors point out that direct classification may be free or structured. It is free when a specific format is not followed. In this case, the researcher gathers the observations but does not give them a particular order.
For its part, it is structured when different situations are prepared in order to observe changes in the behavior of the object. In this case, the researcher groups the impressions obtained, facilitating the subsequent analysis of the data.
When more than one object is observed, structured observation is usually preferred, since it allows comparing the results of each observation.
When is direct observation used?
Direct observation is used when you want to study the behavior of a person or a group of people in a given situation.
Sometimes the situation is natural and it is the observer who enters the environment of the observed. In other cases, the situation is recreated by the researchers, so that the observed is introduced into an artificial environment.
The first case occurs mainly in social studies. An example of this would be the behavioral analysis of high school students.
The second case is given mostly in commercial studies. For example, when it is desired to launch a new product to the market, a direct observation is made to establish the reaction of the population to the product.
Elements needed in direct observation
Sometimes the observation process can last for weeks. Therefore, the main element of this method of collection is the commitment, both by the observer and by the observed.
In addition to the commitment, the patience and the perseverance . It can be seen that in the first observation sessions, no relevant data are collected for the research. However, it is necessary to continue if we want to give an adequate conclusion to the study.
Depending on the type of research being performed, it may be necessary to have an audio and video recording equipment.
The analysis of the recordings requires more work on the part of the researcher. However, it represents an advantage that constitutes a permanent record of the data collected.
Finally, it is necessary to have the approval not only of the persons observed but also of the institution in which the study is carried out. In case the objects are minors, it is also important to have the permission of the representatives.
Making observations without the consent of the participants entails ethical problems that call into question the results of the research. It could even lead to legal problems.
Factors to be taken into account when doing the direct observation
There are a number of factors that could affect the results obtained. If the object of study knows that it is being observed, it is necessary to take into account the relation between the observer and the observed: are they in a relationship or are they unknown?
If they have a relationship, the object might feel comfortable, but if they are unknown you might feel intimidated.
On the other hand, whether the object knows or does not know that it is being observed, the observer's impartiality must be considered: does the observer have any motive for altering the results obtained or, on the contrary, is he impartial?
References
- Holmes (2013). Direct Observation. Retrieved on September 19, 2017, from link.springer.com
- Direct Observation. Retrieved on September 19, 2017, from idemployee.id.tue.nl
- Qualitative Methods. Retrieved on September 19, 2017, from socialresearchmethods.net
- Direct Observation as a Research Method. Retrieved on September 19, 2017, from jstor.org
- Direct Observation. Retrieved on September 19, 2017, from depts.washington.edu
- Using Direct Observation Techniques. Retrieved on September 19, 2017, from betterevaluation.org
- What is the Definition of Direct Observation? Retrieved on September 19, 2017, from classroom.synonym.com