Sociology: A-Level- Observations And
Statistics Questions And Correct Answers
Observation The researcher watches people in a social situation and record what is said
and done
Participant observation observer becomes a participant in the group being observed
Non-participant observation The observer is separate from the people being observed
Covert observation Participants' behaviour is watched and recorded without their
knowledge or consent.
Overt observation Participants' behaviour is watched and recorded with their knowledge
and consent.
Practical strength of observations Useful to access unusual or deviant groups that the
researcher knows little about. Gatekeepers can be bypassed. Eg Humphrey's tearoom trade
allowed him to record homosexual behaviour
Statistics Questions And Correct Answers
Observation The researcher watches people in a social situation and record what is said
and done
Participant observation observer becomes a participant in the group being observed
Non-participant observation The observer is separate from the people being observed
Covert observation Participants' behaviour is watched and recorded without their
knowledge or consent.
Overt observation Participants' behaviour is watched and recorded with their knowledge
and consent.
Practical strength of observations Useful to access unusual or deviant groups that the
researcher knows little about. Gatekeepers can be bypassed. Eg Humphrey's tearoom trade
allowed him to record homosexual behaviour
