Types of observation
Check lists
Check lists are primarily descriptive and indicate the presence or absence of a behavior. They provide basic information on a wide range of behavior and characteristics. Checklists are most appropriate for answering yes/no items or for documenting a large number of behaviors in a short period of time.
Example
The technology worked properly throughout the entire lesson/lecture.
___Yes
___No
Scaled ratings
Scaled ratings are more precise measures that indicate the degree to which a characteristic or behavior is present or true. The most commonly used scales have five points with a mid-point that indicates neutrality or "average." [more]
Example
The sound quality of the podcast was clear and understandable
| Very poor | Weak | Average | Good | Excellent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
Interval observations
Interval observations record the frequency of a behavior or characteristic. An observer docuents what is taking place in the classroom or instructional technology at regularly timed intervals (e.g., every five minutes). Behaviors are documented using a checklist or a scaled rating system.
Example
Students using Inspiration software for a writing course
| Time | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Majority of students | 5 | 10 | 15 | 20 | 25 | 30 | 35 | 40 | 45 | 50 |
| Engaged with technology | ||||||||||
| Passive with technology | ||||||||||
| Displaying confusion | ||||||||||
| Arriving at conclusions | ||||||||||
| Learning from mistakes | ||||||||||
Narrative comments
Narrative comments or notes are part of observations. Observation forms may include space after each item for the observer to explain the rating or there may be space at the end of the form for general comments. Observers may record additional comments/notes immediately following the observation to supplement be taken during class.
Example
9:00 a.m.
Dr. Paderas begins class by introducing Second Life, a virtual
world technology program that her students will use throughout the
semester. She
asks if anyone has ever used the program before whether for a class or
outside of class. One student raises his hand and when asked from
Dr. Paderas, “What was your experience like,” the student responded
with enthusiasm and delight. Dr. Paderas then presents a tutorial
of the virtual world program and explains some of its capabilities. Then,
she continues to describe how Second Life will be used in her
class by explaining the key benefits, which were….
