5 Different Types of Observation in Education

Observation is the active acquisition of information from a primary source. We observe the people to learn more about them. This observation skill helps with blending in your surroundings quicker. Observation seems to be a very useful key in understanding children and getting to know more about them as an individual. This observation process is important in helping both parents and teachers to realize what kind of development a child might need. Observing children means watching and noticing their actions, expressions, behaviour, and interactions. Sharing this with each other is very important for parents and teachers as it will determine the next steps that should be taken in regards to a child's development. With the help of observation we can find what children enjoy the most, what their interests are. It can also make the various parts of development visible like physical, intellectual, social, emotional, etc. Types of observation in education that proves to be helpful when getting to know your children are as follows.

List of 5 different types of observation in education

1. Participant Observation:

Participant observation takes place in groups. Here, the observer takes place in the group activity with the one he or she is going to observe and note the situation. In this type of observation, the observer is personally involved in group activities and shares their feelings and prejudices. Because the observer is also part of the group, it helps him get insight into the behaviour of the group. The interaction that happens during group activities between the observer and the one who is being observed helps to stimulate mutual relationship between them both. This helps with collecting more information with accuracy and precision. Participant observation was first introduced by Prof. Edward Winder Man. To get the best outcome, the best philosophy of this observation is not to ask. Participant observation helps us get to know the actual behaviour of the group.

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2. Non-Participant Observation:

The observer in this type either watches the person he or she is observing from a distance or will participate in a group but never in its activities i.e. the observer never takes interest in the process. The difference between participant observation and non-participant observation is that the participant observer will take part in the group activities and will be able to observe in detail and closely. On the other hand, in non-participant observation, even if the observer is a member of a group, the same detailed observation will not be there. Even though the observer never attaches himself or herself to the group, the objectify still maintains. There is a less chance of emotional involvement and that leads to accuracy and greater objectification. It is said that with non-participant observation, the information is collected entirely and the research remains smooth as well.

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3. Controlled Observation:

In controlled observation, the observer and the observer or subject, both of their actions and decisions are controlled. Systematic data collection is involved in controlled observation so, the accuracy and precision is expected from both the parties. This observation can be also used with students who are facing mental illness like anxiety or depression. There are observational plans and observational schedules as well, to see how the progress of betterment of students is coming along. The other devices that sometimes can be used are mechanical appliances like cameras, maps, films, videos, tape-recorders, etc. The controlled observation is pre-planned and definite. The mechanical devices used in controlled observation are for precision and standardized. Hence, this type of observation increases accuracy, reduces bias, ensures reliability and standardization.

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4. Un-controlled Observation:

This type of observation takes place in a natural setting without the help of external devices or any control or pressure from outside. Un-controlled observation is related to day-to-day happening and socio-cultural problems that the observer does not and could not plan in advance. For example, in abroad, skin colours can cause bullying or racial problems even at school. This can affect children in a very bad way and for a long time. With the help of observation of such problems and noticing if it happens frequently strict actions could be taken against it.

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5. Structured and Unstructured Observation:

In structured observation, the information is recorded in a standardized way. It is a planned observation of the subject and it tends to follow certain patterns, rules, and designs for the purpose of what, how or when to observe. Many times, this structured observation can be used during a class project or a group assignment, etc. Unstructured observation is completely opposite to structured. It is not systematic and it is un-planned.

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With the help of observation, knowing about how an individual will react in a specific situation can get easy to predict. This could help us to know what kind of development a child might need. The classes for personality development for kids can help with working on their strengths and weak points as well, from the beginning.

These were a few types of observation in education which is used by teachers world-wide. It not only provides teachers with constructive feedback for betterment of the classroom but also improves the interaction bond between learner and teacher.