Observation Schedule

An observation schedule is a form prepared prior to data collection that delineates the behavior and situational features to be observed and recorded during observation. Observation schedules vary on a quantitative–qualitative continuum. More quantitative observation schedules, sometimes referred to as observation checklists, use carefully and explicitly predefined categories of variables that can be counted and analyzed statistically. More qualitative observation schedules act as flexible guidelines for data collection, listing topics of interest and providing space to record notes about new themes that emerge during observation. Heavily structured observation schedules are best suited to contexts where more is known about the topic of interest; more flexible, less structured observation schedules are more effective in situations where less is known about the research questions.

Usually taking the form of a single sheet of paper, observation schedules are most frequently used with structured observation. Categories included on the data collection form are derived from the purposes of the research project and from what is known about the variables or themes of interest. Observation schedules are typically pretested and modified before implementation.

Observation schedules allow factual information to be recorded immediately. Factual data collected typically include some or all of relevant demographic information (e.g., age, gender), the role of participants in the research setting (e.g., job title), counts of the number of individuals present, and elements of the physical setting. Investigators also document what participants do (acts and activities) either by checking predetermined categories or by making notes about what is observed. What people say (words and the meanings ascribed to them) and relationships among participants are usually also of interest. In developing observation schedules, researchers attend to ease of use. More quantitative observation schedules will include explicitly defined categories that are exhaustive and mutually exclusive and that, wherever possible, avoid subjective measures requiring judgment or inference. More qualitative observation schedules seek to list as many emerging themes of interest to the project as is possible. Observation schedules are well suited to tracking time and if designed to do so, can capture the frequency, sequence. and duration of events observed. Most researchers recommend leaving space on observation schedules, including the most explicitly quantitative forms, for recording data that do not fit into preselected categories and impressions and other more subjective data that may inform the study.

Observation schedules provide clear guides for focusing observation and recording data. In studies involving more than one observer, they allow for tests of intercoder reliability and serve to enhance consistency among observers. Heavily structured observation schedules are less flexible, restricting attention and limiting the ability of observers to see new things. The use of observation schedules can be intrusive and result in reactivity in research settings. However, it has been found that this is usually ameliorated through habituation.