Observation in Qualitative Research | Types and Process

Qualitative research heavily relies on observation as a core methodological approach. According to Creswell and Poth (2016), “observation is the act of noting a phenomenon in the field setting through the five senses of the observer, often with an instrument, and recording it for scientific purposes.”

Observations can generate in-depth findings by collecting rich data on participants’ experiences, interactions, and specific meanings as they naturally occur.

The researcher may watch the following:

• Physical setting
• Participants
• Activities
• Interactions
• Conversations
• The researcher’s own behaviors during the observation.

During the observation process, researchers use their senses, including sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste. It’s important to realize that writing down everything is impossible.

Types of Observation in Qualitative Research

The observer can be involved in what he or she is observing OR it can be all about the individuals being observed. Given the focus on the two forms of engagement in terms of participating and observing, we usually distinguish observations into four types.

I. Participant observation

Participant observation is sometimes called “participant as observer.” The researcher is participating in the activity at the site. The participant role is more salient than the researcher role. There are benefits to participant observations.

Read also: Advantages of Participant Observations

Unfortunately, there are limitations to this type of observation. For instance, a participant as observer can be distracting for the researcher to record data when he or she is integrated into the activity.

In overt participant observation, participants are aware of the researcher’s role. However, in covert participant observation, the researcher’s identity and purpose are concealed.

Read more: Limitations of Participant Observation

II. Nonparticipant/observer as participant

This is also known as direct observation. The researcher is an outsider of the group under study, watching and taking field notes from a distance. The researcher can record data without direct involvement with activity or people. The goal is to carefully watch and record behaviors as they unfold naturally. A researcher uses this approach when the goal is to minimize the influence on the environment or subjects being observed.

III. Complete participant

This is a type of observation where the researcher is fully engaged with the people being observed.

IV. Complete observer

Complete observer is a type of observation where the researcher detaches from the study, meaning that they are neither seen nor noticed by the individuals under the study.

Process of Observation in Qualitative Research

Despite it appearing informal, the process of observation in qualitative research is methodical. It typically begins with the researcher identifying the research question and choosing the appropriate type of observation.

Below is the series of steps for how to do observations:

• Select the observation site then obtain necessary permissions and access.
• Identify what and who to observe. Here, determine the subjects, timing, and duration, with guidance from a gatekeeper.
• Choose an observational role. Decide on a role (e.g., outsider, insider, participant observer).
• Develop an observational protocol. Create a structured method for note-taking. This might include descriptive and reflective notes.
• Record observational details. Include physical settings, participant behaviors, events, and personal reactions.
• Engage in the observation. Be introduced, stay passive and friendly, and begin with limited goals.
• Exit the site respectfully. This could mean thanking participants, explaining data use, and sharing accessibility details.
• Write field notes promptly. Immediately following each observation, create comprehensive and detailed field notes to capture the richness of the experience.

It’s important for the researcher to also consider ethical issues such as informed consent, confidentiality, and minimizing harm. Being aware of personal biases and how these might affect one’s observations and interpretations could help improve the credibility of findings.

Source

Creswell, J. W., & Poth, C. N. (2016). Qualitative inquiry and research design: Choosing among five approaches. SAGE Publications.