Laboratatory Exercises (Coursework Sample)

Laboratory Exercises: Introduction to Research Methods
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An Introduction to Research Methods
Chapter 4
Module 7
Exercise 2Explain the difference between participant and non-participant observation and disguised and undisguised observation.
Participant observation refers to a case where the observer actively participates in the situation in which the research subjects are involved (Jackson, 2014). In other words the observer is part of the activities carried out by the subjects being observed. Non-participant observation, on the other hand, is an approach in which the observer does not take part in the situation the subjects are involved in (Jackson, 2014). Using the latter approach, the observer carries out the reconnaissance from a distance.
Disguised observation is an approach in which the observer conceals the fact that surveillance on the research subjects is being carrying out. This approach is non-intrusive and thus the subjects will not react unnaturally to the presence of the observer (Jackson, 2014). The opposite is undisguised observation, in which the researcher does not make any attempt to hide the fact that the observation is going on. This intrusion runs the risk of making the subjects conscious to the presence of the researcher, which may influence them to act unnaturally (Jackson, 2014).
Exercise 4Explain how qualitative research differs from quantitative research.
Qualitative research is carried out to gather information on a particular phenomenon in a natural setting (Jackson, 2014). Qualitative researchers have no interest in simplifying, objectifying or quantifying the data in a systematic manner. Instead, the data is interpreted as it is gathered from the field.
Quantitative research on the other hand is a structured approach that gathers data which is measurable for a more scientific analysis. (Jackson, 2014). It is carried out under controlled circumstances to narrow down the data gathered to the desired purpose of the inquiry.
Exercise 6Explain the difference between an interview and a focus group interview.
An interview is a method involving asking questions ...