Observation is Data Collection Through Observation, Know Its Aspects

Kapanlagi.com - Observation certainly is not a foreign term anymore. Especially for those of you who are involved in the academic and research, observation must have been a daily discussion. Although it is a quite popular term, not many people know the true meaning of observation? In general, observation is one part of the instruments in research.

In research, there are a series of instruments, observation is one of the most important and must exist. Observation becomes an important stage, because it is at this stage that the process of data collection in the field is carried out. Observation is a stage that must be done carefully and meticulously. Because the data collected will become the material that will later be processed in the report.

It is important to understand what observation is, especially for those of you who will or are conducting research. As reported by liputan6.com, read the following explanation about observation.

1. Definition of Observation

(credit: freepik)

Observation is often associated with the activity of observing an object. This opinion is not entirely wrong, because as mentioned earlier, observation is a stage or process of data collection in a research. Meanwhile, conducting observations is one of the methods that can be used for data collection.

However, observation is not only about observing, but researchers also engage in activities such as recording, counting, measuring, and noting the incidents found in the field. Therefore, observation must be done carefully and attentively to obtain accurate data.

In addition to the general understanding mentioned above, several experts have also expressed their definitions of observation. The definitions of observation are as follows.

1. Nawawi and Martini
According to Nawawi and Martini, observation is the activity of observing, accompanied by sequential and detailed recording, related to the elements that emerge in the phenomenon or object being studied. The results of this process will then be reported systematically and according to the rules of research report.

2. Gibson and Mitchell
Gibson and Mitchell believe that observation is a technique in making selections to determine decisions and conclusions about others who are being observed.

3.Sutrisno Hadi
Sutrisno Hadi believes that observation is a complex process, consisting of various biological and psychological processes. However, the important thing in observation is memory and observation.

2. Important Aspects in Observation

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As mentioned by Sutrisno Hadi, observation is a complex process. The complexity of observation can be seen from the various aspects that need to be considered during this stage. These aspects include the following.

1. Participants
Participants in observation are individuals involved in the activities being observed in the study.

2. Objectives
The aspect of objectives is closely related to the hopes or targets expected by participants during the activities. These expectations can be in the form of actions, words, expressions, and so on.

3. Activities
The aspect of activities includes the motivation or drive of participants in carrying out the activities, as well as for whom the activities are done, how participants carry out the activities, what forms the activities take, and the impact of the activities.

4. Place
The aspect of place includes the location where the observed activities take place.

5. Time
The aspect of time is related to the duration of the observed activities.

6. Objects or Tools Used
This aspect is related to the type, shape, material, and purpose of the objects or tools used during the observation.

3. Types of Observation

Observation is a common method used in data collection. In general, there are two types of observation. The two types are as follows.

1. Participant Observation
Participant observation is a type of observation that requires the researcher to immerse themselves and participate in activities in the observation environment. This observation can be done in two formats, namely Partial Participant Observation and Full Participant Observation.

2. Non-Participant Observation
The second type of observation is non-participant observation. In contrast to participant observation, this type of observation does not require the researcher to directly interact with the observed object. However, the researcher still needs to obtain a complete picture of the object being observed.

4. Advantages and Disadvantages of Observation Process

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As one of the data collection methods, observation has its own advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, before starting the observation process, researchers must carefully consider its advantages and disadvantages. This is because it can greatly determine the steps or processes of future research.

The advantages of observation include the possibility of simultaneous occurrences of various findings in the field, due to the assistance of observers or other tools. The recording process in observation can also be done quickly, minimizing the risk of being missed due to forgetfulness. In addition, data in observation can also be obtained from subjects through verbal or non-verbal communication.

On the other hand, the disadvantages of observation include the relatively long time it takes. It is possible that there are confidential information related to activities that cannot be used as data. There may also be other obstacles such as weather, natural disasters, and so on.

Those are some reviews about observation as a data collection process through observation. Hopefully, it is beneficial and can increase knowledge.

(kpl/psp)