Question

A researcher is interested in collecting observational data and decides to use a coding system. She develops criteria that will be used to label what is observed and she and a student who will be collecting data practice using the codes until they can do so reliably. They are concerned that participant knowledge that they are conducting observations will affect behaviors so they choose to collect data somewhat discretely. The researcher and her student are using which method, are focused on which form of reliability, and are concerned with which issue?

a.	naturalistic observation; measurement reliability; reactivity

b. systematic observation; inter-rater reliability; reactivity

c. laboratory observation; inter-rater reliability; sampling

d. naturalistic observation; measurement reliability; sampling

Answer 1

Ans.(b) systematic observation; inter-rater reliability; reactivity

Systematic observation refers to the setting up a study in a way that we are able to eliminate or reduce bias. The decision rules are set ahead of time before we begin data collection.

Inter-rater reliability refers to the degree of agreement among raters. It gives a score of how much homogeneity or agreement is there in the ratings given by judges.It is a way to test the validity of the study.

Reactivity refers to the phenomenon that occurs when individuals alter their performance or behavior due to the awareness that they are being observed. The change may be positive or negative and depends on the situation.