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Describe the two primary limitations of structured observation as discussed in the course. In your description, recall the specific methodological reasons why each limitation occurs in structured observation research.
Question: Describe the two primary limitations of structured observation as discussed in the course. In your description, recall the specific methodological reasons why each limitation occurs in structured observation research.
Sample answer: The two primary limitations of structured observation are ecological validity and participant reactivity. First, ecological validity (external validity) is limited because researchers exert greater control over the environment, such as conducting the study in a laboratory setting. This makes the situation less natural and leaves it unclear whether the observed behaviors will generalize to the real world. Second, participant reactivity is a concern because researchers conducting structured observation are frequently undisguised, which increases the likelihood that participants will alter their behavior because they know they are being observed.
Key points:
- Identification of ecological validity (external validity) as a primary limitation.
- Explanation that exerting control (e.g., using a laboratory) makes the setting less natural.
- Explanation that reduced ecological validity makes generalizability to the real world unclear.
- Identification of participant reactivity as a primary limitation.
- Explanation that structured observation often uses undisguised researchers, increasing reactivity concerns compared to naturalistic observation.
Rubric: A complete response will correctly recall: 1) Ecological validity as a primary limitation, explaining that environmental control (like laboratory settings) makes the situation less natural and reduces generalizability to the real world (worth 50% of the grade). 2) Participant reactivity as the second primary limitation, explaining that undisguised researchers cause heightened concerns about reactivity compared to naturalistic observation (worth 50% of the grade).
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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU
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