Explain Observation Technique

by Yuvi - July 25, 2021

Observation Technique

Introduction

Observation means to look outside of oneself, at others. It is an important means to collect information. It is a non-testing or non-standardized technique. In counseling, much of the information regarding the personal adjustment of the individual is obtained by this method.

Definition of observation

As per Good – “Observation deals with the behavior of individuals in appropriate situations.”

As per Hampleman – “Observation as a method of studying pupils/students, consists of the direct observations of the behavior of individual or class group.”

Characteristics of observation

• Observation is specific.
• Scientific observation is systematic.
• It is quantitative as there is recording of the number of instances.
• Results can be checked in terms of reliability and validity.
• It is a technique to observe the behavior of an individual.
• It is carried out for one person at a time.

Situations of observation

• Free/Open – There is no restriction in this situation.
• Manipulated – The observer introduces special or additional factors in the situation. Eg. Drop a 100 rupee note and see if anyone pockets it or returns it.
• Controlled situation – This is undertaken in controlled or restricted environments. Eg. Interview panel, examinations, debates.
• Uncontrolled situation – Where one has no control over the situation. Eg. Calamities, Epidemics.

Types of observation

• Natural – Observation carried out in natural settings without any tools or techniques.
• Participant – Observer establishes perfect rapport with the group/individual in such a way that he/they may not become aware of his purpose and thus may not hide their actual behavior.
• Direct versus Indirect – Directly observing the individual versus deductions on the basis of some collected information.
• Recorded versus Unrecorded – Noting observation down is recorded while not noting it down is unrecorded.
• Individual versus Group – Observing only one person versus an entire group.

Principles of observation

• At a time only one child should be observed.
• The process of observation should go on over a long period of time.
• Observation should be systematic.
• The pupil ALONG WITH the surrounding situation should be observed.

Advantages of observation

• It is a useful technique to collect data of students.
• It is flexible and can be used in various situations.
• It can be used by all persons.
• We can keep a record of the pupil’s actual or real behavior in different situations.
• It is a very reliable instrument technique for the study of behavior pattern.
• We can know a lot about the mental processes and personality.
• It is economical, natural and flexible.
• It is useful for studying the influence of heredity and environmental factors on the child’s development.

Limitations of observation

• It is difficult to observe the inner behavior of the child.
• If we make the person whom we are observing conscious then behavior becomes artificial.
• Sometimes observation may be full of favoritism.
• Sometimes mental and physical fatigue affects the quality of observation.
• There is great scope for subjectivity.