Observation Technique
Observation is a methodological technique used to research behavior, phenomena, and events in the real world. It allows researchers to discover connections and trends and thoroughly comprehend the topic under study (Tomaszewski et al., 2020). Factual data are gathered by observation and then evaluated and interpreted. Observation may be structured or unstructured depending on the study’s goals (Denny & Weckesser, 2022). The rights and confidentiality of research participants must be respected when making observations, which calls for caution and ethics.
Identification of a Qualitative Research Study with Observational Methods
The covert observation technique is employed in research to watch and examine people’s behavior and actions without interfering with them or making oneself known. The article by Archer et al. examines parents’ crucial role in introducing technology to their young children and how joint mobile device use by parents and kids might enhance academic and social outcomes (2021). The findings of observations and analysis of 30 parents’ interactions with their kids while using both well-known and novel mobile devices are presented in the study (Archer et al., 2021). The article investigates the aspects that affect parent-child interaction with technology, including the kids’ age and their comfort level with the gadgets. It describes the many themes that arose from the observations.
Description of the Observed Subjects or Phenomenon
This article’s authors’ interaction with the research participants/subjects can be called observational. The authors do not actively participate in the exchanges they see between parents and their young children as they utilize mobile devices (Archer et al., 2021). They do not join as active players but monitor and evaluate parent-child behavior and interactions. The authors used covert observation techniques and pre-arranged interviews and meetings to contact study participants while maintaining their discretion.
Ethical Considerations of Covert Observation in Research
In certain circumstances, such as social or behavioral studies where participants may alter their conduct knowing they are being watched, covert surveillance during research may be allowed. This might help in getting more impartial findings. However, ethical guidelines and secrecy obligations must be carefully followed when conducting covert surveillance (Carey et al., 2020). The rights and interests of research participants must be considered, and covert surveillance must be ensured so as not to infringe on their privacy rights or violate their right to secrecy.
References
Archer, K., Wood, E., & De Pasquale, D. (2021). Examining joint parent-child interactions involving infants and toddlers when introducing mobile technology. Infant Behavior and Development, 63. Web.
Carey, A. L., Rentscher, K. E., & Mehl, M. R. (2020). Naturalistic observation of social interactions. The Wiley Encyclopedia of Health Psychology, 373–383. Web.
Denny, E., & Weckesser, A. (2022). How to do qualitative research? BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 129(7), 1166–1167. Web.
Tomaszewski, L. E., Zarestky, J., & Gonzalez, E. (2020). Planning qualitative research: Design and decision making for new researchers. International Journal of Qualitative Methods, 19. Web.