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Methodology of Social Research

notes Oxford concise dictionary has defined observation as “actual inspection and description of the
incidences in relation to the cause-effect or mutual relationship, in the form they are present”.
As per P.V. Young, “observation may be used as a thoughtful method of study of collective behaviour
and complex social institutions through eyes, along with, single units that create completeness”. young
has written an alibi “observation is a deliberate study of spontaneously developing incidences at the
time of their happening, arranged by one’s own eyes.”
As per Prof C.A. Mojer, “in exact meaning, in observation as compared to ears and voice, use of eyes
have more freedom”.

Notes observation is a direct and important methodology of compiling primary data. in
this, researcher sees the incidences, hears, understands and compiles the related
data. for observation, observer may participate in the daily life of the collective
or community or may do this by sitting at a distance. in observation, man makes
use of his senses.

Characteristics of Observation
Based on the various definitions of observation, evident characteristics of observation are mentioned
below:
1. use of human senses: in observation, completed and organized use of human sense is made.
in this, observer also uses his ears and voice, but eyes are used in it in the most important
way. He investigates the incidences through eyes and notes them for compilation.
2. collection of primary Data: in this method, observer himself is present at the point of
incidence and collects first-hand information about the incidence; hence they are more
trust-worthy.
3. Minute, Deep and Purposive Study: in observation method, observer himself is present at
the point of incidence; hence, he can make a minute and deep study of the incidence and
compiles only those facts which are related to his study.
4. To Find Out Cause-effect Relationship: the basic difference between general observation
and scientific observation is that in general observation, observer only sees the incidences,
whereas in scientific observation, after seeing the incidences, he finds out their cause and
effects, based on which it is possible to move ahead with principle formulation and to find
the truth.
5. Practical and Empirical Study: Mojer’s thought is that observation is an experimental and
experience-based study method, through which both type of behaviours, collective and
important, can be studied. study done through observation is not imaginary but is dependent
on practical or experience.
6. Impartiality: in observation, observer himself sees the incidences from his eyes and
investigates them properly, tests them on the scientific criterion. Hence, its inference in
impartial and scientific and is saved of bias.
7. Direct study: in observation method, observer directly sees the incidence, contacts the people
related to it and compiles the facts.

142 loVely professional uniVersity