Question

How do researchers become involved enough to understand what's going on as seen through the eyes of the group members without letting their own values and prejudices distort the observations.

Should the research be overt (open) or covert (observing in secret) in the study. For example, does the sociologist tell the other students and the teacher in the class that she is studying them, or does she keep this fact secret and pretend to be an ordinary student all year? When deciding whether to use overt or covert observation, the sociologist will consider all of the relative advantages and disadvantages.
Researchers may also adopt a covert role if there's a risk of peoples behaviour changing if they know they are being studied
If its to be adopted and maintained the researcher has little choice but to become a full participant
Risk of the research being ruined if their real identity or purpose is discovered

Answer 1

Researchers must decide between overt and covert observation when studying a group. Overt observation involves openly disclosing the study to group members, while covert observation means keeping it a secret. The choice depends on the advantages and disadvantages of each approach.

Step-by-step explanation:

When it comes to studying a group, researchers must decide whether to use overt or covert observation. Overt observation involves openly telling the group members that they are being studied, while covert observation means keeping it a secret and pretending to be an ordinary member of the group. The choice depends on the advantages and disadvantages of each approach. Covert observation allows researchers to access authentic behaviors, but gaining access without disrupting behavior can be challenging. On the other hand, overt observation is more transparent but may result in changed behavior due to awareness of being studied. Researchers need to carefully consider their goals and the potential impact on the research when deciding which approach to take.