Participant Observation

ADVANTAGES -

Validity
observed in natural setting
no Hawthorne effect if using covert Po
The recorded observations of PO have a true to life feel about them
PO offers insight (researcher can develop deeper understanding of group)
develop trusting relationship with researcher and more likely to open up.
PO may be the only way to study closed groups
research opportunity - PO is very flexible
if a new issue arises during a study, PO can adapt accordingly - with structured forms such as formal interviews or questionnaires new issues cannot be brought into research process once it has started.

DISADVANTAGES -

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