Non-participant observation is a research method in which the researcher observes and documents a social setting, group, or individuals without actively participating in the activities or interactions being studied. Unlike participant observation, where the researcher engages directly in the observed context, non-participant observation maintains a more distant and objective stance.
Features of non-participant observation include:
- Observational distance: The researcher maintains a level of detachment and does not become directly involved in the activities or interactions being observed. This distance is intended to minimize the researcher’s impact on the setting’s natural dynamics.
- Objective observation: Non-participant observers aim to be as objective and unbiased as possible. Their role is to document behaviors, interactions, and patterns without influencing or being influenced by the observed individuals or groups.
- Structured or Unstructured: Non-participant observation can be structured or unstructured. Structured observations involve predetermined categories or behaviors to be recorded, while unstructured observations allow flexibility and exploration of unexpected phenomena.
Non-participant observation is valuable when researchers aim to maintain a degree of objectivity, minimize potential biases, or study phenomena where direct involvement may alter the natural dynamics. While it provides a more external perspective, researchers must still navigate ethical considerations and ensure the validity and reliability of their observations.
List of recommended resources #
For a broad overview #
This entry on non participant observation by J. Patrick Williams in Sage Encyclopedia of Qualitative Research Methods gives a basic introduction to the concept. It also provides various reasons for which a researcher might engage in non participant observation.
An Introduction to Nonparticipant Observational Research Techniques
This research commentary article by Carol Barner-Barry gives an overview of non participant observational techniques used in research. The article attempts to give a brief review of the most basic techniques used.
For in depth understanding #
Qualitative Research for the Information Professional: A Practical Handbook
Chapter 7 of this book (“Observation”), by G. E. Gorman and Peter Clayton, gives an in-depth understanding of observation as a research method particularly used for qualitative study.
The Compleat Observer?: A Field Research Guide to Observation
Edited By Dr Jack Sanger, this book combines anecdotal accounts, inter-professional experiences, critical debate and practical pointers to being a good observer, and explores issues surrounding observation in social science-oriented research.
Case study #
Nonparticipant Student Observation of Faculty Classroom Teaching
This article by Erik H. Hofmeister analyzes reports by inexperienced non participant observers of faculty classroom teaching episodes. It is a qualitative document analysis of written observations made by senior veterinary students attending pre-clinical classroom lectures by a faculty member.
Using Non-Participant Observation in the Clinical Setting
This case study by Melissa J. Bloomer, Wendy M. Cross, Margaret O’Connor and Ruth Endacott discusses the use of non-participant observation to explore how nurses recognize patients dying in an acute medical hospital ward and how they respond in terms of the care they provide.
References #
What Is Non-Participant Observation?
