Points to remember
The following are the major points introduced in this chapter. Ensure that you are very confident with their meaning, content, context and significance.
1
Observation is the method of data collection that employs vision as the only
technique of collection.
2
There are several types of observation, for example, naive, scientific,
participant, non-participant, structured, unstructured, natural, laboratory,
open, hidden, active, passive, and direct and indirect observation.
3
The steps of the research model employed in observation are similar to those of
the standard model introduced earlier in this volume.
4
Sampling procedures in observation are similar to general procedures in this
area.
5
Given the nature of the method, the observer is expected to be well qualified
and have the required skills.
6
As a method of data collection, observation appears in a number of ways, for
example, as continuous observation, time-point observation, time-interval
observation and event observation.
7
Observation is a unique method that can be employed in areas where other methods
are unsuitable and therefore offers several advantages.
8
In studies of physical traces researchers examine traces to learn about those
who created the traces.
9
Problems of observation can relate to a number of issues, for example, the
observer, the purpose of observation, the tools used, the categories of
observation and the expectations of the researcher.