involves measuring a variable or set of variables as they exist naturally.

the research observes and systematically records the behavior of individuals to describe the behavior.

involves the direct observation and systematic recording of behaviors, usually as the behaviors occur in a natural situation

requires repeated exposure until the observer's presence is no longer a novel stimulus

before observations begin, we identify the categories of behavior we want to observe and then list exactly which behaviors count as examples of each category

two or more individuals must observe and record simultaneously for some of the observation periods

Quantifying Observations:

involves counting the instances of each specific behavior that occur during a fixed time observation period

involves recording how much time an individual spends engaged in a specific behavior during a fixed time observation period

involves dividing the observation period into a series of intervals and then recording whether a specific behavior occurs during each interval... provides a way to balance frequency and duration to obtain a more representative measurement

Sampling observations

involves observing for one interval, then pausing during the next interval to record all the observations.

involves identifying one specific event or behavior to be observed and recorded during the first interval then shifting attention to a different event or behavior during the second interval

involves identifying one participant to be observed during the first interval, then shifting attention to a different individual for the second interval

when researchers measure behaviors or events in books, movies, or other media

recording behaviors from historical records

Types of observation

a researcher observes behavior in a natural setting as unobtrusively as possible

the researcher engages in the same activities as the people being observed in order to observe and record their behavior

is the observation of behavior in settings arranged specifically to facilitate the occurrence of specific behaviors

research study that uses a survey to obtain a description of a particular group of individuals

Types of Questions

produce a limited and predetermined set of responses, they are easy to analyze and summarize

allows an individual the greatest flexibility in choosing how to answer. likely to reveal each individual's true thoughts or opinions

presented as a horizontal line into categories so that participants can simply circle a number or mark an X at the location corresponding to their response

Ways to administer a survey

provide an economical and efficient medium of reaching a large number of potential respondents. Researcher has greater access to participants with a particular characteristic

mail the survey to a large sample of individuals. people can answer at their own convenience anonymously.

when the individuals who return surveys are usually not representative of the entire group who receives them.

Contacting individuals by phone.

there is a risk that the researcher will influence their natural responses.

Most efficient way method for administering a survey is to assemble a group of participants and have all of them complete the survey at the same time.

involves the in-depth study and detailed description of a single individual (or a very small group). provides researchers with information concerning rare or unusual phenomena OR use the detailed descriptor of a single individual to demonstrate an exception.