Descriptive Methods

Naturalistic Observation

• AKA “field operation”• Observing natural or true behaviors• High in ecological validity (external validity)– Extent to which research can be generalized to

real-life situations• Two Options– Nonparticipant observation– Participant observation

Disguised observation

• Participants are unaware that the researcher is observing their behavior

• Unobtrusive• Minimizes reactivity• Concerned with expectancy effects– Desired outcome by experimenters

Laboratory Observation

• Systematic observations• Control high internal validity• Reactivity and expectancy effects still concern

Data Collection

• Narrative Records-full description• Checklists– Time– Location– Measures beh• Yes / no• Time series

Qualitative Research

• Field settings– Unstructure– No manipulation

• Case studies• Archival Method• Interviews• Action Research