2. Points to be discussed
Meaning of Observation
Types of Observation
Merits of Observation
Limitation of Observation
3. Observation
Observation is one of the most ancient and widely
used instrument of measurement. It has been
defined as “Measurement without instruments”
Observation is the active acquisition
of information from a primary source. In living
beings, observation employs the senses.
Observations can be qualitative, that is only the
absence or presence of a property is noted or
quantitative if a numerical value is attached to the
observed phenomenon by counting or measuring.
4. Definition of Observation
“Observation means accurate watching, noting of
phenomena as they occur in nature with regard to
cause and effect, mutual relations.” - Oxford
Dictionary
5. Types of Observation
Controlled observation :Controlled observations
are typically a structured observation that takes
place in a psych lab. The researcher has a
question in mind and controls many of the
variables, including participants, observation
location, time of the study, circumstances
surrounding the research and more.
Non-controlled observation : Non-controlled
observation are made in the natural environment
and reverse to the controlled observation these
observations involve no influence or guidance of
any type of external force.
6. • Participant observation : In this type of
observation, observer tries to observe the behavior of an
individual or individuals by joining them as an associate
or participant in any of their individual or group activities.
For eg. He may join them in play activities or accompany
them on tour and excursion activities for having a close
observation of them.
• Non-Participant observation : In this type of
observation, no participation of the observer in the
activities of the group takes place and no relationship
between the observer and the group.
7. • Formal observation : In such a type of observation , it
is carried out in quite a formal way by observing the
necessary formalities like
(a) providing the information to the individual or individuals
about the nature and purpose of the observation,
(b) date, timings and place of observation
(c) name and introduction of the observer
• Informal observation : Informal observation is carried
out in a quite informal, spontaneous and natural way .
Here, no prior information about the nature, purpose,
timing and place of the observation is given to the
individual or individuals. In such naturalistic
observational situations, we may have a relatively true
picture of the things and events, traits and
characteristics of one’s behaviour.
8. Merits of Observation Method
Flexible approach: Observation is a flexible
approach to data collection, suitable for a broad
range of contexts.
Natural and Original form : Observation method
make possible to study the behaviour in its quite
natural and original form.
It can produce a mix of qualitative and
quantitative data : For example, when observing
people in a group situation, we might count up how
many times certain behaviors or interactions occur
(quantitative), while also taking freehand notes
about the nature of the group dynamics (qualitative).
Individual or group : Can be used to assess
individuals as well as groups.
9. •Reliable and valid measure : In case of human behavior,
observation is the only reliable and valid measure that
can be properly adopted for the investigation of behavior.
•On-the –spot record : Evidence of child's
performance/knowledge is based on an 'on-the-spot
record'.
•Use of technology : Teachers can also observe teaching
and learning in their own classes using digital recording
technology.
•Economical method : It is an quite an economical
method in terms of time, money and labour . We can
collect huge information about the behavior of a single
subject or a number of subjects within limited time and
resources.
10. Limitation of Observation
Labour intensive : Conducting observations can be
labour intensive, in preparation, data collection and
analysis.
Difficulty in getting properly trained observers :
Observation requires the service of competent and
skilled person.
Lack of reliability and validity: It is impossible for
the observer to know what is going on in the mind of
the subject. He is supposed to observe it through
external signs of behavior. There are chances that
subject under observation may play hide and seek
and hide his feelings, emotion and inner personality.
11. •Not helpful in the study of one’s total behaviour : This
method is not able to establish a proper cause and effect
relationship. We observe two phenomena, poverty and
delinquency behaviour, invariably occur together, we can’t
infer from this that poverty is the sufficient and necessary
cause of delinquent behaviour or vice versa.
•Past’s problem can’t be measured :Problems of the
past can’t be studied by means of observation.
•Difficulty in recording the observation data :
