Describe systematic observation and discuss methodological issues such as the use of equipment, reactivity, reliability, and sampling.

In this chapter, we will explore a variety of observational methods including naturalistic observation, systematic observation, case studies, and archival research. Because so much research involves surveys using questionnaires or interviews, we cover the topic of survey research separately in the chapter “Asking People About Themselves: Survey Research”. Before we describe these methods in detail, it will be helpful to understand the distinction between quantitative and qualitative methods of describing behavior.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Compare quantitative and qualitative methods of describing behavior.
Describe naturalistic observation and discuss methodological issues such as participation and concealment.
Describe systematic observation and discuss methodological issues such as the use of equipment, reactivity, reliability, and sampling.
Describe the features of a case study.
Describe archival research and the sources of archival data: statistical records, survey archives, and written records.