Observation

Observation* is a method for gathering data by watching behaviours or events, or by noting physical characteristics in their natural settings (i.e., without interference from the person doing the observing).

Observation can be:

• overt (when people know they are being observed),
• covert (when the observer is concealed and those being observed are unaware),
• direct (observing the process as it occurs),
• indirect, when you watch the results of processes (e.g., watching children select their lunch options after education classes on healthy meal planning).

Scientific observations are not free-form, and require clear definitions for all elements being observed, as well as systematic recording in order to be both comprehensive and reliable when rating multiple individuals.

Resources needed for observation
Observation is a low resource method for data collection. It generally requires only the staff time needed, unless you also need to develop standardized tools and ratings for your observations. There are structured observational tools that provide an idea of the types of resources needed.

When should you use observation as a method to collect data?

1. To understand an ongoing process,
2. To understand individuals or their interactions,
3. To know more about a physical setting,
4. When it is unrealistic to collect data from individuals (e.g., children under the age of five).

More information on other ways to gather data.