Final answer:
Direct Observation is the method used to note the presence or absence of demonstrated skills and abilities, capturing real-time behavior and competencies displayed by individuals in their natural setting.
Step-by-step explanation:
The observation method used to note the presence or absence of demonstrated skills and abilities is Direct Observation. This method involves the observer noting behaviors, actions, and competencies as they occur in real-time. It's a hands-on approach to seeing how someone performs in a role, offering insights into what skills are visible in that setting. For instance, observing a teacher in a classroom can reveal their instructional methods and student engagement techniques.Unlike interviews or questionnaires, which collect subjective responses, or experiments, which test hypotheses in controlled environments, direct observation captures the spontaneous and authentic expression of abilities. In job analysis, observation serves as a valuable tool to understand which skills are actually employed by professionals in their daily work routines. When preparing for observation, it's useful to consider the research question and whether multiple sessions are needed for a comprehensive understanding.