Observational research is a kind of non-experimental studies where a behavior of an individual and associated pheromones are investigated systematically based on the different types of observations.
Observation research or analysis may be a qualitative research technique wherever research workers observe participants in progress behavior in an exceedingly natural situation. Counting on the sort of observation research and also the goal of the study, the market researcher can have various levels of participation within the study.
Generally the researcher will insert themselves into the environment, and alternative times, the researcher will not intervene in the setting and observe from a distance or in a laboratory setting.
The aim of this observational research is to collect additional reliable insights. In other words, researchers will capture information on what participants do as opposed to what they assert they do.
Once it involves empirical research, you have got 3 differing kinds of methodologies: controlled observations, representational observations, and participant observations.
Let me quickly inspect what each kind of observation includes, however they differ, and also the strengths and weaknesses of every type of observation:
1- Controlled Observation
Controlled observations are generally a structured observation that takes place in an exceedingly psych lab. The research worker features a question in mind and controls several of the variables, as well as participants, observation location, time of the study, circumstances encompassing the research, and even more details depending on the type of research their doing and the goal they have in mind.
2- Representational Observation
Representational observation is another kind of observation analysis technique employed by market research workers. This specific kind of observation happens once market researchers study the behaviors of participants in an exceedingly natural surroundings.
There are generally no planned activity codes. Instead, the researchers can take rigorous notes and code the information later on.
3- Participant Observation
The last kind of observation methods is participant observation. This is often a kind of naturalistic observation within the indisputable fact that market researchers will observe participants in their natural habitat.
The distinction is market researchers will insert themselves into the environment as well, making it a richer experience for researchers as well.
If you are willing to carry out a reliable study and answer your analysis questions with additional robustness, then one in all the 3 varieties of observation research ways will help.
You just need to assess your situation and the main aim of your research. Then you can choose a proper method. Also remember that quantifying observation research does not get to be tough after you have the proper tools to assist you.