What is the observational method?

The observational method is associated with observation, which is nothing more than the active acquisition of information about a phenomenon. To observe is to attentively perceive an object, an action in which the researcher knows what he wants to analyze and why (Díaz, 2011).

Observation is constituted as a process whose main function is to collect information. This collection involves a coding activity: the selected raw information is translated using a code to be transmitted (Fabbri, 1998). Observation is not simply a perceptual process that makes sensations conscious, it is also an organizational process.

As a scientific method, observation is characterized by:

Serve a research objective. Be systematically planned. Be controlled and related to more general propositions. Be subject to validity and reliability checks.

What is the observational method?

The observational method is a scientific procedure in which reveals the occurrence of perceptible behaviors. These behaviors are organized and analyzed (both qualitative and quantitative), through the use of instruments and parameters that make it possible to detect the relationships between them (Anguera, 2003).

This method allows us to contrast the hypotheses, replicate the results obtained and contribute to the theoretical development of the disciplinary field to which it is limited. Also helps the researcher keep track of variables throughout a research process (Anguera and Hernández, 2014).

In this method there is no manipulation of behaviors as in experimental or quasi-experimental research designs. However, Yes, there is control over possible extraneous variables that may affect or distort the data.. With this control it is intended that the independent variables are the only ones responsible for the effects on the dependent variables.

Phases of the observational method

Next, we will review the eight phases of the observational method proposed by Anguera (2003).

1) Exploratory phase

In this phase, the aim is to specify the object of study, reduce or eliminate the reactivity of the observed subject, increase the level of training of the observer and collect information. During this phase Detailed knowledge and familiarization with the observation situation must be acquired.

2) Prior provision

In this phase of the observational method, the following aspects must be taken into account, which are aimed at facilitating the procedure and avoiding errors:

Maintaining intersession consistency: guarantee maximum equality between the different observation sessions.Maintaining intrasession consistency: It must be ensured that throughout the session it is not interrupted by an unexpected event that causes a break in the activity.Treatment of temporary disruptions: guarantee the solution of those situations that interrupt the observation process.Timing: preparation of a plan or an agenda related to the succession of activities to be developed throughout the observational process.Identification of the observation session: will include information related to the physical environment, the activity to be carried out (enactment of a narrative, prosocial episodes, learning of new behaviors, etc.), the social level of the observed subjects and information of an institutional or organizational nature (start and duration of activities). in its usual context).

3) Observational sampling plan

In this phase you must plan when observations will be made to obtain the corresponding record. The optimal situation would be that of a continuous record, equivalent to the entire reality that is intended to be studied.

Some elements to take into account are the observation period, the periodicity of the sessions, the minimum number of sessions, the start criterion and the end of the session.

4) Preparation of the instrument

This phase consists of the creation of an instrument to record the information collected. Some of them are the category system and field format. The category system is more comprehensive, while field formats are more flexible and suitable in complex empirical situations.

5) Registration and coding

This part of the observational method involves collect data from reality and translate it into a specific medium. The transcription of the data must be carried out using a descriptive record, which will be decomposed into behavioral units to give rise to a semi-systematized record. Afterwards, this record will be progressively systematized.

6) Obtaining parameters

In this phase the following parameters are recorded:

Frequency: is the number of actions or occurrences of the observed behavior.Order: sequence of different behaviors.Duration: time of appearance of the behavior.Latency: time that passes between the presentation of a stimulus and the appearance of the behavior.

7) Data quality control

Once the data is collected, its quality must be guaranteed.. The most basic of the control requirements is the reliability of the observational record. Validity must also be ensured, that is, that what was intended to be measured has been measured.

8) Data analysis

The last phase of the observational method is the analysis of the data, from which the results will be obtained. These findings should be logically related to the objectives set at the beginning of the research and to the literature on similar issues.

Advantages and limitations of this method

To finish, we will review some advantages and limitations of the observational method.

Advantages

It makes it possible to obtain information as it occurs. It allows us to know and study many forms of behavior. They help to study subjects who cannot provide verbal reports (babies, animals, etc.). They can be carried out in cases in which there is resistance to research by the subjects.

Limitations

Possibility of interference from foreign and hidden factors. The practical possibility of applying observation techniques is limited by the duration of the events. Not all observed data can be quantified, although they generally can be.

In conclusion, The observational method is not based on ordinary and simple observation, but on complex and scientific observation. that seeks to provide objective, valid and reliable knowledge. Through rigor and systematicity in its application, a researcher can capture the reality he wants to study and collect relevant information to achieve the objectives of his research.

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