Question 1: Define 'participant observation' in sociology and explain how it differs from non-participant observation.

Answer: Participant observation is a research method where the researcher actively engages in the setting they are studying, often becoming part of the group. Non-participant observation involves the researcher observing without direct involvement. The key difference is the level of involvement of the researcher in the setting.

Question 2: Identify two advantages of using observation as a research method in sociology.

Answer: Advantages include: 1) The researcher can observe actual behaviour in real-life contexts, providing richer data. 2) It allows for understanding social interactions and norms within a group or setting.

Question 3: Identify two potential limitations or challenges of using observation in sociological research.

Answer: Limitations include: 1) Observer bias, where the researcher's perspectives influence findings. 2) Ethical concerns about privacy and consent of participants being observed.

Question 4: Describe a situation where covert observation might be necessary. What ethical considerations does this raise?

Answer: Covert observation might be necessary when revealing the researcher’s identity could alter participants' behaviour, such as studying criminal activity. Ethical considerations include the lack of informed consent and potential invasion of privacy, which may breach ethical guidelines.

Question 5: Explain what is meant by 'reactivity' in observational research and how it can affect findings.

Answer: Reactivity refers to changes in participants’ behaviour caused by their awareness of being observed. It can lead to artificial or unrepresentative behaviour, affecting the validity of the findings.

Question 6: What are the key differences between overt and covert observation? List one advantage of each.

Answer: Overt observation involves informing participants they are being observed, which promotes ethical transparency. Covert observation involves hiding the researcher’s identity, which can reduce reactivity. An advantage of overt observation is ethical transparency; an advantage of covert is more natural behaviour from participants.

Question 7: Sketch a simple diagram illustrating a basic setup for a non-participant observation in a public park. Label the main components.

Answer: The sketch should include: a researcher positioned at a distance from a group of people, a field note pad or recording device, and a public park setting. Labels should identify the researcher, observation area, and recording method.

Question 8: Describe one ethical issue that researchers need to consider when conducting observation studies involving vulnerable groups, such as children or vulnerable adults.

Answer: Researchers must ensure informed consent is obtained from guardians or responsible adults, protect participants’ privacy and confidentiality, and avoid causing any harm or distress during the observation.

Question 9: Suggest one way researchers can minimise bias when recording their observations.

Answer: Researchers can minimise bias by using standardized recording methods, such as checklists or coding schemes, and by triangulating data with other sources or methods.

Question 10: Sketch a diagram of a possible observation setting used in a classroom. Indicate where the researcher might position themselves and what they might observe.

Answer: The sketch should show a classroom with students seated, the researcher positioned at the back or side of the room, and observers noting student interactions and behaviour. Labels should include 'Researcher position', 'Students', and 'Observation area'.