Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Observation Methods
The observation method I found most interesting was mechanical observation to measure physiological reactions. This is because you can use this to find out what types of things grab the reader's attentions just by using eye-tracking monitors. The four major categories in this type of observing are: eye-tracking monitors, pupilometers, psychogalvanometers and voice pitch analyzers. They use the psychogalnanometers alot to see emotional arousal or tension when taking lie detector tests. I find this type of thing to be very interesting because it has helped alot in solving crimes. The voice pitch analyzer is a great way to see how people's tones give off how they are feeling at the moment. The observation technique that I believe is the most helpful to researchers is the direct observation method. This is because the observer just records what happens and does not try to control the situation. This will produce accurate findings and will limit any bias behavior. This is also the most straigtforward for of data collection so it is the most natural way. A form is used alot so that any recording is done right away so that nothing is forgotten.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
This is true Kari! I feel that maybe the lie detecter tests have loop holes in it. I mean there are some incredible liars out there. Some people are great test takers. lol. The direct methods are straightforward and to the point, the proof is there in black and white and there is no way around it. It saves alot of time and it is more effecient.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you about psychogalnanometers and the lie detector tests; they are very helpful But if companies are using psychogalnanometers to observe how people feel about their products I think it goes a little to far. But I'm guessing that they would probably have to pay their subjects in order to get them to agree to be apart of theur study.
ReplyDeleteMechanical observation involves using various types of machines to collect the data, which is then interpreted by researchers. With continuing improvements in technology, there are many "mechanical" ways of capturing data in observation studies, however, mechanical observation tend to be extremely expensive that may be a draw back for researchers. I do think mechanical observations can still be a great tool in certain cases.
ReplyDeleteYes the mechanical methods are very interesting! I once took a survey that measured my eye movement, but at the time I had no idea what was really happening. I was stopped by a research firm in Cumberland Mall and they sat me in a dark room and showed me pictures of grocery aisles. They were recording my eye movements and then later they asked me to recall the brands that I remembered. It was fun and I got some extra cash :)
ReplyDelete