Doing Sociology: Research Methods — Sociology STD 11 Humanities — Question

Observation: It refers to systematically attending, recording and processing information through direct participation and observation of the group, tribe or community which is included in the study.

1. There is use of vision for collection of data.
2. Collection of data by watching people's behaviour without actually interfering with it.
3. Noting down the data as it happens with regard to the cause, phenomenon and effect.

Observation-as a sociological research:

1. Specific, valid, reliable, accountable, precise.
2. Precise and no extra details.
3. Objectivity.
4. Researcher's opinion should not be expressed.
5. Validity is important. What you are observing must be related to the problem.
6. Has to be reliable and accurate.

Types of Observation:
Participant:

1. When you are a part of the observation. e.g. in a wedding, you are part of music and dancing along with observing.
2. Participant takes active part in all activities of the observed group.
3. Observed may or may not know the identity of the observer.
4. Usually the identity of the observer is not known as the observed will become very conscious.
5. Subjectivity is present and will be more as your identity bias.
6. Complete participant observation identity of observer is not known.
7. Observer stays with the people for days/ months. He gets completely involved in activities of group and stays with them in order to understand them completely and thorougly.

Non-Participant:

1. When you observe from outside. The observer is not part of the group that is being observed. e.g.; sitting out in sangeet.
2. Observed may or may not know of the observer's identity.
3. More objectivity than subjectivity-less bias.
4. Notes more than participant observer.
5. Personal bias may contaminate the results.
6. Quantitative data is less and difficult to find.
7. Noting sequence is after observation.

Steps involved for participant and non-participant observation:

1. Selection of appropriate group.
2. Familiarise with group and its activities.
3. Do research in sequence.
4. Get involved/ observe from outside depending on the type of participation.