Discuss various types of observations. Give examples to illustrate.

Observation is used as a tool of collecting information in situations where methods other than observation cannot prove to be useful, e.g. voters’ behaviour during election time. The purpose of observation is to explore significant events and situation capturing human conduct as it really happens.

There are four types (or ways) of observation :

1. Participant Observation and Non-Participant.

2. Participant as Observer.

3. Observer as Participant.

4. Observer as Observer.

1. Participant Observation and Non-Participant :

(a) It is one of the techniques of data collection. In small and pre-literate society, this technique can be usefully employed. But Its use can become challenging and problematic, when society we are observing is complex. He takes role performance. The method achieves good result when the identity of the observer is not quite apparent.

(b) The main characteristic of participant observation is that analysis is carried out sequentially and each stage is different by logical sequence. That is, each succeeding stage depends on some analysis in the preceding stage. They are further differentiated by different forms of conclusions.

(c) In some cases, participant observation becomes very difficult and fought with risks particularly when the issue being inquired has sensitive and explosive dimensions, e.g. exploring the situation of communal riot.

(d) Participant Observation is a method in which the investigator becomes a part of the situation he is studying. He involves himself in the setting and group life of the research subjects. He shares the activities of the community observing what is going on around him, supplementing this by conversions and interview.

2. Participant as Observer : This is not disguised participant. Observer enters the community as observer not as role performer. Here the identity of observer is known.

3. Observer as Participant : In this case, observer visits a person and establishes relationship and puts certain questions and observes the situation. Observer is here ‘observer’ as well as ‘participant’ with the interviewer.

4. Observe as Observer :

(a) In this case, observer observers the situation but those being observed are not aware of it. The observer has to be perceived in terms of skills and trainning.

(b) The quality of the observer is more important than investigators in other forms of data collection.Observation especially, participant observation, relies much on the attributes of the researcher for both amount and quality of information.

(c) Exact knowledge of the subject (or issues), previous experience, ability to deal with varied situations, adaptability, flexibility, ability to get along with others, and to remain unbiased and free from ideological constraints, are of great significance. Training must concentrate on the issues that are central to the study.