Systematic Observation

Introduction

Paul Croll (1986) proposed that systematic observation "is a research method which uses a system of highly structured observation procedures applied by trained observers in order to gather data on patterns of behaviour and interaction" (p. ix).

He noted that such observations can be reported in quantitative or qualitative terms.

In his discussion of a quantitative approach to data collection, Paul Croll suggested these criteria:

It is explicit in its purpose ... this purpose has to be worked out before data collection is conducted.
It is explicit and rigorous in its definition of categories and in its criteria for classifying phenomena into these categories.
It produces data ... which can be summarised and related to other data using statistical techniques.
Once the procedures for recording and criteria for using categories have been arrived at, the role of the observer is essentially one of following instructions ...

Pat Griffin and Thomas Templin (1989) provided some early insights into qualitative research in physical education and sport. They note dthat qualitative data collection includes direct observation, interviews and document collection. They suggest that:

Direct observation requires the researcher to go to the research setting and spend a significant amount of time there. As soon as possible after an observation, the researcher writes field notes, which are narrative descriptions of what was observed and what people did and said, and physical descriptions of places and people. (p. 403)

Keith Lyons (1992, 2010) provides two examples of this approach to qualitative research and reporting.

Observing and Analysing Performance in Sport

If you would like to discover more about the Observation and Analysis of Performance in Sport you might like to have a look at this open course that ran in November and December 2012.

It remains available as an open resource at this link.

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Photo Credit

Setting Up (Keith Lyons, CC BY 4.0)