FIELD OBSERVATION Meaning and
Definition
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Field observation refers to a research method used in various disciplines, including sociology, anthropology, and psychology, among others. It involves the systematic and direct observation of a natural setting or social phenomenon in its actual context, outside of a controlled environment. This method aims to gather qualitative data by observing and documenting behaviors, interactions, and other relevant aspects of the subject of study, as they occur naturally.
Field observation typically involves the researcher immersing themselves in the field of study, often for an extended period, in order to gain a deep understanding of the subject being observed. The researcher usually uses various observational techniques such as participant observation, in which they actively engage and interact with the individuals or groups being observed, or non-participant observation, where they remain detached and simply observe from a distance. These techniques help to capture a wide range of information, including verbal and nonverbal communication, cultural norms, social structures, and environmental factors.
This method allows researchers to explore and understand the complex dynamics and intricacies of the social or natural phenomena under investigation. Field observation provides rich, detailed, and contextually-grounded data, which can be used to generate new theories, develop hypotheses, or validate existing knowledge.
The data collected through field observation is typically recorded in field notes, which are detailed, descriptive, and comprehensive accounts of the researcher's observations, interactions, and reflections. These notes are then analyzed and interpreted using qualitative research methods, allowing researchers to draw conclusions and generate insights from the observed data.
In summary, field observation is a research method that involves observing and documenting natural settings or social phenomena to gather qualitative data, providing deep insights into various disciplines.
Common Misspellings for FIELD OBSERVATION
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Etymology of FIELD OBSERVATION
The word "field" in "field observation" comes from the Old English word "feld", which meant "open land" or "pasture". It evolved from the Proto-Germanic word "felthaz" and is related to the Latin word "pellis" meaning "skin" or "hide", as well as the Old High German word "feld" meaning "field" or "plain".
The word "observation" comes from the Latin "observare", which means "to watch" or "to pay attention to". It is derived from the combination of "ob", meaning "toward" or "against", and "servare", meaning "to keep" or "to guard".
Therefore, the etymology of "field observation" reflects the act of watching or paying attention to events, conditions, or phenomena in an open land or natural environment.
