Advantages and disadvantages of observations

Advantages and disadvantages of observations

1. Disadvantages of participant observations

   • Peer pressure
     • Could be lying
       • NOT representive

2. Advantages of participant observations

   • Can research working of group
     • See others viewpoint
       • First hand insight (verstehen)

3. Advantages of non-participant observations

   • More objective
     • IRL look at group
       • Possibly more honest

4. Disadvantages of non-participant observations

   • NOT where action is
     • Could influence behavior
       • Dis-honest

5. Advantages of covert observations

   • can observe 'labelling' in natural setting
     • Researcher gets valid data
       • Gain their trust so could be more open

6. Disadvantages of covert observations

   • Misleading (ethical incorrect)
     • cannot exactly repeat
       • could be TOO familiar with them

7. Advantages of overt observations

   • Ethically correct
     • CAN exactly repeat
       • Honesty from researcher could encourage them

8. Disadvantages of overt observations

   • Interview bias
     • hard to get access to group
       • Need permission