Observation (Naturalistic & Analogue)

Observational research is a social research data collection tool that involves the direct observation of phenomena in their natural setting. Naturalistic observation has no intervention by a researcher. It is simply studying behaviours that occur naturally in natural contexts, unlike the artificial environment of a controlled laboratory setting. It permits observing and recoring authentic behaviour. In participant observation, the researcher also intervenes in (and influences) the environment.

Useful references for Observation: Angrosino (2007); Levine et al. (1980); McLean & Connor (2018)