Final answer:
People recording traffic patterns in a shopping mall are involved in observational research, a non-intrusive method that records behavior as it naturally occurs. This approach is especially useful when experimental studies are not feasible or ethical, and it provides insights into naturally occurring phenomena.The correct option is A.
Step-by-step explanation:
When people are hired to record traffic patterns in a shopping mall, they are engaging in observational research. This research method involves watching and recording behaviors and events as they naturally occur without any manipulation or intervention by the researcher.
Observational studies are important in circumstances where it is neither possible nor ethical to conduct experimental studies, as they allow the researcher to gather data on naturally occurring phenomena.
The key aspect of observational research is its non-intrusive nature, where those being observed are often unaware of being studied to prevent any alterations in their behavior due to their awareness of the observation.
- Archival research involves using existing records to answer research questions.
- Longitudinal research involves following a group of research participants for an extended period of time.
- Naturalistic observation is similar to observational research but typically takes place in natural environments.
- Cross-sectional research refers to studies conducted at one point in time with different groups.
- Case study research is in-depth and conducted over a long time with few subjects, similar to Sigmund Freud's approach.
- Ethnography is a type of participant observation where the focus is on understanding how subjects view themselves in relation to the community.The correct option is A.