ASSIGNMENT: Observations

One of the assignments of this course is to conduct an observation. Everyday, we conduct observations of human behavior in our offices, classrooms, or homes. We also observe how people use technology, such as email, and how students interact with each other.Essentially, you are already trained and adept at conducting observations. For qualitative research, however, observations are done 1) with a purpose and 2) using a systematic method. These two points must be emphasized as your observations are important to further illuminate the phenomenon understudy (your research questions) and will be used to validate your data during the analysis process.

The process:

1. Based on your interviews and research project, you will choose the people and setting in which to conduct your observations.
2. Inquire with the individuals and the institution to solicit participation to conduct the observation.
3. Create an observation protocol. What are you looking for? How will you record the information?
4. Schedule and conduct the observation of at least five hours. This may require that you conduct several observations.
5. Write a report (2-3 pages) to include
   1. Observation procedure, including a justification of procedure
   2. Description of the participants and setting
   3. Preliminary analysis of the data
   4. Discussion of if and how you would change your procedures
   5. Conclusion