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Unit 29: Observation
29.4 Steps of Observation Notes
(a) Selection of various Aspects of behaviour for observation : The biggest problem is observation
method is deciding upon the aspects of behaviour that should be observed. While observing
activities of an individual is a particular situation some activities may get left out for the
purpose of observation some selected aspects of an individual’s behaviour should be pre-
determined so that observer concentrates on these aspects only.
(b) Making clear the meaning of selected behaviour : The meaning of determined behaviour
should be made clear so that if two different observers are watching an individual’s behaviour
there is consistency and reliability is their conclusions.
(c) Training of observers : It is important to train observers. It observers are not trained the marks
awarded by then shall not reflect the real position. To minimize the margin of error in their
conclusions they are made to undergo practice.
(d) Quantifying Observation : It is necessary to substantiate the observed behaviour. The
substantiation is in terms of numbers. Keeping Count of number of times a student repeats the
some behaviour is substantiating the observation.
(e) Report writing or Data Recording : It is necessary to immediately record an observed fact. It
is ideal to use code words for different types of behaviour. Apart from this, tape recording on
CD or floppy and photography are appropriate recording techniques.
Principles to be followed in observation
(i) Observe the whole situation : While observing, the teacher should not only limit his attention
to the behaviour of the student but should also limit the conditions under which is working.
(ii) Observe Students is their routine activities : Students should be observed through their daily
activites, for instance, how does a student behave while studying in the classroom, in the
playfield or while moving more classroom to the other classrooms.
(iii) Observation over a long period : Students behaviour should be observed over a long period.
This help the observer to arrive at any definite conclusion.
29.5 Advantages of Observation Method
• They permit measurement of actual behavior rather than reports of intended or preferred
behavior.
• There is no reporting bias, and potential bias caused by the interviewer and the interviewing
process is eliminated or reduced.
• Certain types of data can be collected only by observation.
• If the observed phenomenon occurs frequently or is of short duration, observational methods
may be cheaper and faster than survey methods.
29.6 Disadvantages of Observation Method
• The reasons for the observed behavior may not be determined since little is known about the
underlying motives, beliefs, attitudes, and preferences.
• Selective perception (bias in the researcher’s perception) can bias the data.
• In some cases, the use of observational methods may be unethical, as in observing people
without their knowledge or consent.
Self Assessment
2. State whether the following statements are ‘true’ or ‘false’
(i) Observation is looking and listening very carefully.
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