Observation as a research method- a discussion agenda

Based on Bailey (1994), I produce the following agenda for examining the topic of Observation as a Research Method:

1. Advantages and disadvantages of Observation
2. Types of Observation:  (i) natural setting vs artificial laboratory; and (ii) unstructured vs structured. (re: Figure 10-1 of Bailey (1994; p, 247)
3. Process involved in a field study
• Stage 1: gain entry
• Stage 2:  gain rapport
• Stage 3: Observe and record
• Stage 4: Deal with crisis
• Stage 5: Data analysis
4. Indirect Observation:
• Unobtrusive and nonreactive
• Physical traces: erosion  measures and accretion measures
5. Validity and Reliability as assessment criteria of Observation

It is useful to study Bailey (1994) to have a firmer grasp of the topics noted in the Agenda.

Related lecture notes:

Note 1:

Note 2:

Note 3:

Note 4

References
Bailey, K.D. (1994) "Chapter 10: Observation", Methods of Social Resarch, Free Press.
Saunders, M., Lewis, P., Thornhill, A. (2009) Research methods for business students, Prentice Hall