What Is The Second Step Of Direct Observation

What is the Second Step of Direct Observation? A Comprehensive Guide to Effective Research

Direct observation, a powerful research method, involves systematically watching and recording behavior in a natural setting or a controlled environment. While the "first step" can be broadly defined as planning and preparation, the actual second step hinges on the specific observational design employed. There's no single universally accepted "second step," but we can break it down into several crucial actions that typically follow initial planning. This article will explore these key elements, providing a comprehensive understanding of effective direct observation.

Understanding the Context: The First Step's Foundation

Before delving into the subsequent stages, it's critical to establish the groundwork laid by the initial planning phase. This first step involves several vital components:

1. Defining Research Questions and Objectives:

Clearly articulating the research goals is paramount. What specific behaviors are you observing? What hypotheses are you testing? The clarity of these questions directly impacts the methodology you'll adopt in the following steps.

2. Selecting the Appropriate Setting and Participants:

Will your observations take place in a natural, uncontrolled environment (e.g., a playground, a classroom) or a structured, controlled setting (e.g., a laboratory)? The choice impacts the level of control you have and the types of data you can collect. Similarly, participant selection is crucial. Will you observe a specific group, a random sample, or a targeted selection based on specific characteristics?

3. Choosing an Observation Method:

Several methods exist, including:

• Structured Observation: This involves using a pre-defined checklist or coding scheme to systematically record specific behaviors.
• Unstructured Observation: This is more open-ended, allowing for more flexibility in recording observations. However, data analysis can be more challenging.
• Participant Observation: The researcher becomes part of the observed group, gaining intimate insights but potentially influencing the behavior being studied.
• Non-participant Observation: The researcher remains an external observer, minimizing potential bias but potentially sacrificing depth of understanding.

4. Developing a Data Collection Strategy:

This includes determining how you'll record observations (e.g., field notes, video recording, audio recording) and establishing a system for organizing and managing your data.

Once these foundational elements are in place, we can move to the actions that constitute the second step in the direct observation process. These actions depend heavily on the chosen observational method.

The Second Step: Implementation and Data Gathering

The second step is where the actual observation begins. However, the nature of this step varies depending on the approach:

Scenario 1: Structured Observation

If you've opted for a structured observation, the second step involves the systematic application of your pre-defined coding scheme or checklist. This involves:

1. Precise Recording:

Meticulously record the occurrence and frequency of the pre-determined behaviors. This requires careful attention to detail and adherence to your coding system. Avoid subjective interpretations; stick to the observable behaviors.

2. Time Sampling:

If continuous observation is impractical, use time sampling techniques. This involves observing for a set period, then taking a break, and repeating the process. This ensures consistent data collection over a longer period.

3. Event Sampling:

Alternatively, utilize event sampling to focus on specific events or behaviors. This is useful when the target behaviors are infrequent or unpredictable.

4. Maintaining Objectivity:

Throughout the observation process, strive for objectivity. Avoid personal biases and interpretations. Focus solely on recording the observable behaviors according to your predefined scheme.

Scenario 2: Unstructured Observation

In unstructured observation, the second step is more flexible but requires careful attention to detail. It involves:

1. Comprehensive Note-Taking:

Detailed and thorough field notes are critical. Record everything you see and hear, including contextual information, relevant environmental factors, and your impressions (though acknowledging these as subjective).

2. Contextual Detail:

Pay attention to the context surrounding the observed behaviors. What are the environmental factors? What are the social interactions? This contextual information is invaluable for interpreting your observations later.

3. Organized Recording System:

Develop a system for organizing your notes. Consider using timestamps, labels, or other methods to ensure your notes are clear and easily searchable.

4. Regular Review and Refinement:

Periodically review your notes to identify gaps or areas needing further observation. This iterative process improves the quality and completeness of your data.

Scenario 3: Participant Observation

Participant observation adds a layer of complexity. The second step involves:

1. Immersion and Building Rapport:

Establish a trusting relationship with the group you're observing. This often involves participating in their activities and gaining their acceptance.

2. Balancing Participation and Observation:

Maintain a balance between participating actively in the group's activities and objectively observing their behavior. This delicate balance is key to successful participant observation.

3. Reflexivity:

Critically reflect on your own influence on the group's behavior and your potential biases. Acknowledging your position as an observer can improve the trustworthiness of your observations.

4. Ethical Considerations:

Participant observation raises ethical concerns. Obtain informed consent, protect participant confidentiality, and be mindful of the potential impact of your presence on the group.

Scenario 4: Non-Participant Observation

In non-participant observation, the second step focuses on maintaining a detached observational stance while diligently documenting behaviors:

1. Unobtrusive Observation:

Minimize your presence to avoid influencing the behaviors you're studying. Blend into the background and avoid attracting attention.

2. Strategic Positioning:

Choose a position that allows you to observe the target behaviors effectively without disrupting the natural flow of events.

3. Detailed Recording:

Maintain careful and accurate records of observed behaviors, including frequency, duration, and context.

4. Minimizing Bias:

Actively work to minimize your own biases and subjective interpretations. Focus on recording objective observations.

Beyond Data Collection: The Ongoing Process

It's crucial to understand that the "second step" isn't a singular event but an ongoing process that extends throughout the observation period. This includes:

Regular Data Review:

Regularly review your collected data to identify patterns, inconsistencies, and areas needing further investigation. This iterative process ensures data quality and completeness.

Adapting Your Approach:

Be prepared to adapt your observation methods as needed. Unexpected events or behaviors might require modifications to your approach to capture valuable data effectively.

Maintaining Ethical Standards:

Adherence to ethical standards is vital throughout the process. Respect participants' privacy, ensure informed consent, and maintain confidentiality.

Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Direct Observation

The second step in direct observation, while seemingly straightforward, is a complex and dynamic process. It requires careful planning, meticulous execution, and continuous adaptation. By understanding the nuances of different observational methods and adhering to ethical guidelines, researchers can leverage direct observation to gather rich and insightful data for a wide range of research questions. Remember, the success of your observation hinges on the meticulous attention to detail and rigorous adherence to your established plan, ensuring the reliability and validity of your findings. Through careful preparation and execution, direct observation provides a powerful lens for understanding human behavior and societal dynamics.