Observation

Observation

1. DEFINITION

   • Research in a natural setting
   • Prolonged interaction between researcher and participants
   • Systematic recording of behaviors, interactions, and contexts

2. PLANNING

   • Study approach
     • Activities (what they do)
     • Actors (who participates)
     • Location (where it occurs)
   • Access to the field
     • Formal contact with those responsible
     • Letter explaining purpose, confidentiality, and benefits
   • Establishing trust
     • Be discreet in appearance and behavior
     • Listen and learn the local language
   • Planning tools
     • Field diary to organize sessions
     • Checklist (e.g., space, actors, activities, time)

3. IMPLEMENTATION

   • Recording techniques
     • Quick notes during observation
     • Use of recordings
   • Levels of participation
     • Participating observer (immersion in the group)
     • Non-participating observer (external)
   • Guiding questions
     • What? (activities and actions)
     • Why? (motivations, perceived causes)
     • When? (timing, sequence, duration)
     • Who? (participants and roles)
     • Where? (physical context)
     • How? (organization, rules, patterns)

4. ISSUES

   • Choice of recording method
     • Structured approach: counting predefined behaviors
     • Descriptive approach: detailed narrative, context-rich field notes
   • Ethical and practical challenges
     • Observer influence
     • Consent
     • Confidentiality
     • Balance between participation and observation
   • Data quality
     • Record the unexpected and the routine
     • Avoid premature judgments

5. DATA ANALYSIS

   • Tools
     • Manual analysis with colors or categories
     • Qualitative software for large volumes
   • For descriptive notes
     • Transcription and organization of notes
     • Identification of emerging themes
     • Search for patterns of behavior or interaction
   • For structured data
     • Calculation of frequencies and percentages
     • Analysis of sequences and temporal patterns

6. USES

   • Research with vulnerable populations
   • Evaluation of programs in their natural environment
   • Study of real-time interactions
   • Deep understanding of social contexts