NonExperimental Research research in which the experimenter does

Non-Experimental Research = research in which the experimenter does not have complete control over the conditions of the study • Researcher gives up some control in order to get the data • “correlational research”

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Types of Non-Experimental Research • • Surveys Observational Research Archival Research Case Studies

Observational Research • Naturalistic Observation • Participant Observer

Naturalistic Observation • “unobtrusive” research • “nonreactive” research • Types of evidence examined: – Physical Trace – Direct Observation

Participant Observer Research • Useful for secretive or otherwise isolated groups • Approach to research is often hermeneutic • Undisguised vs. Disguised participation • Problems – Objectivity – Reactivity – Privacy and consent

Key Features of Observational Research • Careful record keeping – distinguishes naturalistic observation from casual (non-systematic) observation – Coding Scheme is crucial (example: FACS) • Using a variety of measures • Safeguarding the privacy of participants

Data Recording Methods in Observational Research • Field Notes – for direct observation – Be systematic – use checklists, record in as much detail as possible – Be selective – sampling and restricting to only behaviors of interest – Use recording devices if possible • Content Analysis – for textual and photographic materials

Content Analysis • Manifest vs. Latent Content – Coding manifest content is more objective, and therefore more reliable – Manifest content may be less valid in some cases • Checking for reliability: – Have at least 2 raters work independently – Check for agreement, or “interrater reliability” • Percent agreement • Kappa – Resolve disagreements between raters if possible

Archival Research • Using existing records or data • Potential Problems: – You are at the mercy of whoever collected the data. (They may or may not ask what you need to know. ) – The records could be biased.

Case Studies • Studying a unique individual person, situation, or event • Uses multiple sources of information • Often focused on a practical problem or pressing issue