OBSERVATION

Observation

Table of Contents

Introduction3

Discussion3

Observational Approaches3

Test Behavior Observational Scales4

Clinical Observations4

Self-Observations5

Unstructured versus Structured Observation5

Problems in Observation6

Critical Incident Approach6

Situation Tests7

Unobtrusive versus Participant Observation7

Training Observers8

How I Will Be Using What I Learnt8

Conclusion9

References11

Appendix12

Observation

Introduction

Observation is a primary data-gathering tool of counselors. The main purpose of observation is to collect information that will be useful in describing, interpreting, and explaining client behavior (Cooper 2007, 125-130). Sometimes an individual is observed in a natural situation such as on the job, in the classroom, or at home. At other times the individual can be observed in a contrived or simulated situation. This paper discusses observation and how it can be used to by counselors to become an expert counselor.

Discussion

Observation of test behavior is sometimes as important as the actual answers given by the individual.

Observational Approaches

Observational techniques are intended to describe and record systematic manifestations of the behaviour of an individual as a result of a constant observation of the same. The main instruments used in observing techniques are: records of traits, estimates scales, anecdotal records and interviews.

The observation technique is mainly used to observe the behaviour of an individual and, in general, when using this technique, the observer remains hidden, that is, study subjects are unaware of their presence.

We can use this technique naturally, for example, observing behaviours as they occur in their natural environment or based on a structured, for example, creating situations where we can observe the behaviour of individual.

The advantages of using the observation technique is that we can get accurate information that could not otherwise obtain, for example, information on spontaneous behaviour only happen in everyday life and its natural resources, or information that people could not or unwilling to provide us for several reasons. Also, another advantage is that the technique is inexpensive and easy to apply (Cronbach 2005, 20-25).

Test Behaviour Observational Scales

A variety of scales may be included as part of a testing package. For example, there are observation forms that examiners can use with some of the individual intelligence tests (see Figure 2). Some scales can be used with many types of individual tests (see Figure 1). Slosson and Callisto (1984) designed a scale called Observational Analysis to aid the examiner in the observational process. The behavioural profile calls for the examiner to check categories such as outward behaviour, relationship with examiner, recall, affective tone, attitude, work habits, and expression (Dryden 2004, 30-35).

Clinical Observations

The examiner may also want to observe the client in learning, performing, or social situations. Observations may be focused on a specific observable behaviour, such as time on task, or may cover a wide variety of behaviours, such as affective, cognitive, psychomotor, and social. The examiner might use a checklist of whether behaviour was present or record anecdotal records of typical behaviour. Clinical observation is an extremely valuable tool in working with very young children or with clients who have mental or emotional disabilities (O'Neill 1997, 60-65).

Self-Observations

On many occasions self-observations are important. A variety of types of data may be ...