Advantages and Disadvantages of Observation as a Research Method

ARS Assessment

Contents
INTRODUCTION...........................................................................................................................1
TASK 1............................................................................................................................................1
1. Describe the key purpose of observation, outlining advantages and disadvantages of this
research approach to collect data............................................................................................1
2. Discuss four dimensions that distinguish various approaches to observation....................3
3. A disadvantage of observation is observer bias. Discuss at least two ways of minimising
observer bias...........................................................................................................................5
4. Provide a critical evaluation of the ethics using concealed observation as a research method.
................................................................................................................................................5
TASK 2............................................................................................................................................6
1. Advancements in technology have helped data gathering via online survey questionnaires?
Discuss the mechanisms that can be used to administer online questionnaires and outline the
advantage and disadvantage that may occur..........................................................................6
2. Explain the principles of wording, starting how these are important in questionnaire, citing
examples not in the book........................................................................................................8
3. How are multiple methods of data collection and from multiple sources related to the
reliability and validity of the measures?...............................................................................10
4. “Every data collection method has its own built-in biases, Therefore, resorting to multi-
methods of data collection in only going to compound the biases.” Provide a critique of this
statement...............................................................................................................................11
CONCLUSION..............................................................................................................................12
References......................................................................................................................................13

INTRODUCTION
Data collect of research refers to analyse different sources of data and gather relevant
information from them. It includes the criterion of collecting related data to analyse in order to
conduct investigation of specific topic. However, it is necessary to gather accurate information
related to specific research problem which facilitate to gain more accurate findings respectively.
It is essential for researcher to select appropriate sources for gathering information related to
research topic which helps to gain more accurate as well as reliable findings. It is observed that if
data is accurate and gathered form recent sources then it will provide support to achieve better
research outcomes. It has been analysed that primary and secondary data collection sources are
used in study with specific resources that are suitable for particular investigation. Moreover, it is
observed that the data collection and its analysis is an important part of every research which
helps to attain respective outcomes according to which effective actions can be taken by people
to improve their lives. In context of this investigation, it will focus on purpose of observation
with its advantages and disadvantages along with critical evaluation of ethics. It will also include
advancements of technology that helps to gather from online survey questionnaires and multiple
methods of data collection. The critique of data collection method biases and resorting multi
methods of it is given below.
TASK 1
1. Describe the key purpose of observation, outlining advantages and disadvantages of this
research approach to collect data.
Observation can be defined as method to gather data by observing important aspects of
investigation. It includes the criterion of carrying out observation specific phenomenon in order
to collect relevant data to gain better findings. Basically, it can be consider as a qualitative
research method to observe target population along with analysing in their natural real settings. It
involves the observational research is utilised where other methods including surveys,
questionnaires etc. were not adequate or effective. It is necessary to make an effective
observation for target aspect in terms of gathering information to gain better outcomes.
However, it has been analysed that observation is primary method of data collection which is
helps to gather first hand data that was never used by others. It is observed that observation is
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used by researchers to properly observe selected respondents to collect relevant data which
facilitate to achieve accurate results of study in appropriate way.
The key purpose of observation is to collect data by proper observing respective target
population and other aspects. It is responsible for fostering the in depth and rich understanding of
a phenomenon, situation and setting as well as behaviour of participants in particular settings.
Meanwhile, the observation can be considered as an essential part of gaining an understanding of
naturalist setting and its members’ ways of observation. It is necessary to carry out observation
to collect every detail of respondents under observation for research which are helpful to attain
accurate finings respectively. However, the observation method is known as a systematic
approach which is used to all the sense for examining people in natural settings or naturally
occurring conditions. It includes the criterion of prolonged involvement in settings or social
situation. It includes the clearly expressed and self-conscious notations of the way of observing
are done. Moreover, it consist the tactical and methodological improvisation in order to develop
a full understanding of the setting of interest. Additionally, it is necessary to impart the attention
in ways which is on some sense standardised along with recording one’s observations
accordingly.
Advantages of observation method
 It is a simplest method and common to use by researchers because it doesn’t need any
technical knowledge. A little training can make an individual perfect to observe their
surroundings to collect data for investigation.
 The observation method is useful in order to frame hypothesis because observation is
known as main base of framing any kind of hypothesis on research.
 This method has greater accuracy because researcher can examine the aspects which are
necessary to gather appropriate data to gain findings respectively.
 It is known as a universal method because it is very common and easy way that can be
used in all sciences and research.
 The observation method can be considered as an only technique that is appropriate tool
for few of cases in which behaviour. Feelings and activities are required to be analysed
for investigation.
 It is known to be an independent method that can be used by people to make report
willingly because they should remain careful to gather every aspect with dedication.
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