Chapter V: Observational Methods of Research

Abstract

THIS chapter reviews methods of research based upon survey technics, the use of questionnaires, interviews, ratings and rating scales, case studies, autobiography, direct observation, and instrumental recording. Material is drawn from several related fields which use these research instruments as well as from educational research proper. Transferability of method to problems in educational research has been the chief criterion in the selection of references. Survey Technics GeneralThe basic aspects of research thru surveys include the instrument or vehicle of data collection, the method of collection; the definition and selection of the survey population or sample; the methods and technics of summarizing and analyzing data; and the textual, tabular, and graphic presentation of results. The large-scale data collection problems involved in the administration of important wartime government controls gave rise to the development of special skills and procedures by those who directed these projects. Three agencies published manuals on surveys and form design methods (72,73,96,97).The Office of Price Administration published two manuals, described by Sells (79). The first (72) dealt with substantive issues in survey planning and design, presenting criteria and rules governing the relationship of form and survey design to objectives, elimination of unnecessary items, simplification of respondent's task and reduction of response time, principles for achieving simplicity of questions and improving respondents understanding of his task, statistical planning (including statistical design, objectivity of questions, methods of data collection, sampling plan and tabulation plan), and administrative factors of cost, timing, utilization and application of results, and public relations. The other OPA manual (73) covers mechanical problems of form design, media of duplication, paper, type, special mechanical features, and form standardization.Deming (25) with Bureau of Census experience as a background analyzed the main factors affecting the accuracy and usefulness of surveys. His list of thirteen sources of error, while slightly repetitive, due to the nature of the material, has been found useful: