Unit4-Research Methods

Running head : Unit 4 - Research methods

Unit 4 - Research methods

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Observational research , also known as field research , pertains to a research approach that engages in the direct recording of a phenomenon as it occurs in its natural condition (Zechmeister et al , 2003 . This research approach is distinct from the other research methods because it employs a quasi-artificial scenario that is comprised of a number of factors , of which some could be controlled . The capacity to control at least one of the factors in the

environment allows the researcher to perform the scientific method that would answer the developed hypothesis

Observational research could be performed using any of the three classified types of observational techniques . The covert type of observational research involves unidentified researchers that directly interact with the study participants and remain undetected until the completion of the investigation . In other cases , the researchers are positioned at a distance from the study participants , yet are still capable of direct observation of the actions and interactions that each of the study participants engages in . One advantage of this type of observational research approach is that the study participants are not required to cooperate with the researcher . The anonymity of the researcher in the scenario provides study participants to freely express themselves and to liberally make decisions without being influenced by the researcher . Unfortunately , it is also possible that certain ethical violations could be related to this type of observational approach mainly as a form of...