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29 - Observational Data

from Part VI - Qualitative Data Collection Sources

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  12 December 2024

By
Lesley Baillie  and
Shanlee Higgins
Edited by
John E. Edlund  and
Austin Lee Nichols
John E. Edlund
Affiliation:
Rochester Institute of Technology, New York
Austin Lee Nichols
Affiliation:
Central European University, Vienna
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Summary

Observational data are valuable for many research studies across different fields and can be appropriate for various studies, including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods research. Observations can be structured, semi-structured, or unstructured and are often combined with other methods such as interviews and documentary analysis. In this chapter, we focus on the practical aspects of observational data, including identifying appropriate settings and gaining access, determining the role of the observer and the level of participation during observation, and planning how the data will be collected, recorded, and analyzed. We also emphasize the role of reflexivity – an important tool for the observer to ensure they are aware of how they are influencing the data observed. Although there are many benefits to observation as a data collection method, there are also challenges, limitations, and ethical issues to address; all these areas will be considered in this chapter.

Type
Chapter
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The Cambridge Handbook of Research Methods and Statistics for the Social and Behavioral Sciences
Volume 2: Performing Research
 , pp. 665 - 685
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2024

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