WHAT IS DIRECT OBSERVATION? CHARACTERISTICS AND TYPES - SCIENCE - 2025

The direct observation is a method of data collection is to observe the object of study in a particular situation. This is done without intervening or altering the environment in which the object unfolds. Otherwise, the data obtained would not be valid.

This data collection method is used on occasions when other systems (such as surveys, questionnaires, among others) are not effective. For example, it is advisable to resort to direct observation when what you want is to evaluate behavior for a continuous period of time.

At the time of direct observation, one can proceed in two ways: covertly (if the object does not know that it is being observed) or overtly (if the object is aware of being observed).

However, the second method is not widely used, as people may behave differently due to being monitored.

Characteristics of direct observation

Not intrusive

Direct observation is characterized by being non-intrusive. This means that the observed object unfolds without being disturbed by the observer.

For this reason, the data obtained through this method are recognized and renowned in the area of ​​research.

Non-participation of the observer

In direct observation, the observer adopts a low-profile role as if it were a fly on the wall. For this reason, you should not make suggestions or comments to the participants.

Long duration

Directly observed studies usually last more than a week. This is done for two reasons. First, to ensure that the object is comfortable with the observer and acts naturally.

Second, to be able to obtain all the necessary data for the research that is carried out.

Objective and subjective results

The results obtained through this method can be both objective and subjective.

Objectives involve figures (for example, the time it takes for the object to do a certain activity), while subjective ones include impressions (for example, the anxiety that a certain activity generated in the object).

Need for few observers

Direct observation offers advantages that other data collection methods do not have. The most relevant is that it allows studying the interaction of large groups without the need to increase the number of observers: a single researcher can study a group of 10 people.

Types of direct observation

Direct observation can be of two types: covert and overt. Covert observation is the more widely used of the two. This method consists of observing the object without it knowing that it is being observed.

Overt observation occurs when the object is informed that it is being observed. This method is not used often because the "Hawthorne effect" could occur.

This effect consists in that people can behave differently when they are aware that they are being observed. So, the data obtained would not be reliable.

Other authors point out that direct classification can be free or structured. It is free when a specific format is not followed. In this case, the researcher collects the observations but does not give them a specific order.

For its part, it is structured when different situations are prepared in order to observe changes in the behavior of the object. In this case, the researcher groups the impressions obtained, facilitating the subsequent analysis of the data.

When more than one object is observed, structured observation is usually preferred, since it allows comparing the results obtained by each of those observed.

When is direct observation used?

Direct observation is used when you want to study the behavior of a person or a group of people in a given situation.

Sometimes the situation is natural and it is the observer who enters the environment of the observed. In other cases, the situation is recreated by the researchers, so that the observed is introduced into an artificial environment.

The first case occurs mainly in social studies. An example of this would be the behavior analysis of high school students.

The second case occurs mostly in commercial studies. For example, when you want to launch a new product on the market, a direct observation is made to establish the reaction of the population to the product.

Necessary elements in direct observation

Sometimes the observation process can take weeks. Therefore, the main element of this collection method is commitment, both on the part of the observer and the observed.

In addition to commitment, patience and perseverance are important. It may be that the first observation sessions do not collect relevant data for the investigation. However, it is necessary to continue if the study is to be adequately concluded.

Depending on the type of investigation that is being carried out, it may be necessary to have audio and video recording equipment.

The analysis of the recordings requires more work on the part of the investigator. However, it represents an advantage that constitutes a permanent record of the data collected.

Finally, it is necessary to have the approval not only of the people observed but also of the institution in which the study is carried out. In case the objects are minors, it is also important to have the permission of the representatives.

Making observations without the consent of the participants raises ethical problems that call into question the results of the research. It could even lead to legal problems.

Factors to take into account when doing direct observation

There are a number of factors that could affect the results obtained. If the object of study knows that it is being observed, the relationship between the observer and the observed must be taken into account: do they have a relationship or are they unknown?

If they are in a relationship, the object may feel comfortable, but if they are strangers, it may feel intimidated.

On the other hand, whether the object knows or does not know that it is being observed, the impartiality of the observer must be considered: does the observer have any reason to alter the results obtained or, on the contrary, is he impartial?

References

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5. Direct Observation. Retrieved on September 19, 2017, from depts.washington.edu
6. Using Direct Observation Techniques. Retrieved on September 19, 2017, from betterevaluation.org
7. What is the Definition of Direct Observation? Retrieved on September 19, 2017, from classroom.synonym.com