How to conduct Observational Study?

An observational study is generally used by researchers to address their research questions based on the observations they conducted. In such kind of study, there is no room for interference or exploitation of participants or target group. In most of cases, these studies are qualitative, which can be further used in terms of explanatory or exploratory research. Only in some cases some quantitative observational studies are used by people. This kind of study is generally conducted in the field of medical sciences, social sciences, and hard sciences. The reason behind this could be that many researchers don’t prefer performing traditional experiments for moral or practical reasons.

As compared to other studies, an observational study is typically simple to plan and easy to carry out. All you need is a pen and a notebook. Below mentioned are some stages that can help you plan your research.

Stage 1: Decide what your topic is

The first thing that you need to do is figure out what you need to observe and why. If you aren’t well at experimenting for practical or ethical reasons, then the observational study is best for you. Further, you need to be aware of your goals as well; what are your goals? How can you achieve your goals?

Stage 2: Choose the type of observation and technique

Here are a few factors that you need to consider while choosing the right technique for your study-

Do time constraints bother you, or are you open mind ahead of time?

Is there any research that can be conducted coherently with observational studies?

Is it crucial that the participants you choose for your study are aware that you are present?

What can be done to avoid confounding variables that could interfere with your results?

Staying organized while performing research is crucial. You can create shorthand for your notes. You won’t be given another chance with the same data because these kinds of observations happen in real time.

Stage 3: Create an observational research study

Here’s a list of things that you need to keep in mind before beginning your observation-

Planning: Give yourself enough time to plan everything.

Note-taking method: This is an essential tool in an observational study.

Take consent from your participants: Your participants should be aware of the recording or observation beforehand.

Stage 4: Carry out investigation

Now is the time to do your observation. This is done once you have selected the type of observation, technique, time, and location.

Stage 5: Evaluate your information

Once you are done with the observation stage, the next thing to note down your ideas and impressions and any follow-up questions that are necessary for your study. You need to transcribe your observations if you have recorded them in audio or video. Your analysis can be approached either inductively or deductively-

Under the inductive technique, your data defines your themes if the observation is conducted in a more open-ended space.

On the other hand, if there’s any particular hypothesis before the beginning of your observation, the deductive method is used to examine whether the findings support the hypothesis or not.

Stage 7: Mention your future research directions

Many times, there are chances of observer bias and confounding variables, which is why observational studies are typically exploratory and are not powerful enough to give isolated findings. This is the reason why observational studies can only demonstrate an association.

So, this was all about the observational study method and how it can be conducted by students. Apart from this, if you ever need help regarding your academic papers or assignments, feel free to contact our online assignment writing services for professional help and guidance. Our experts are available 24*7 at your service, delivering high-quality assignments at the best prices.