Final answer:
The method described is an observational study, where subjects are observed without any intervention.
Step-by-step explanation:
The described data collection method employed by a fraternity, where freshman members maintain a log of their hours spent playing video games, aligns with the characteristics of an observational study. In an observational study, researchers collect data by observing subjects in their natural environment without intervening or influencing their behavior. This approach allows for the examination of behaviors, outcomes, or phenomena as they naturally occur, without the introduction of external variables.
In the context of the fraternity's study, the freshman members are serving as the subjects, and their normal activities, specifically the time spent playing video games, are the focus of observation. The study aims to understand the patterns and variations in video game consumption among the fraternity's members without implementing any controlled interventions.
Observational studies are valuable in situations where researchers seek to gain insights into real-world behaviors without manipulating variables artificially. They are particularly useful for exploring correlations, identifying trends, and generating hypotheses for further investigation. In this case, the fraternity's data collection method allows for a non-intrusive examination of the video game habits of freshman members, providing a snapshot of their behaviors within the natural context of their daily lives.
While observational studies offer valuable insights into natural behaviors, it's essential to acknowledge potential limitations, such as the absence of experimental control. Nonetheless, the fraternity's approach is suitable for capturing the spontaneous and unaltered activities of its members, offering a rich source of information for understanding the dynamics of video game engagement within the freshman cohort.