Final answer:
The procedure described is known as naturalistic observation, where researchers observe subjects in their natural environment without interference. Related to this is participant observation, which involves researchers immersing themselves in a setting to observe from an "insider" perspective. Both methods are essential for observational research in the social sciences.
Step-by-step explanation:
The method that involves the use of an informal observation of a student interacting with the environment during a regular schedule is called naturalistic observation. This is a research method that involves observing subjects in their natural environment without interfering. Researchers try to remain as unobtrusive as possible to avoid affecting the behaviors they are observing. An example of this would be observers recording hygiene habits in a restroom without making their presence noticeable, or equipping children with wireless microphones on a playground and observing from a distance. Naturalistic observation can provide valuable insights into behavior as it occurs in a real-world context, but the drawback is that researchers have limited control over environmental variables and observed events.
Another method closely related to naturalistic observation is participant observation, where a researcher immerses themselves in a social setting in order to observe from an "insider" perspective. This could involve a researcher taking on a role within a community, such as working as a waitress or living as a homeless person, to gain a deeper understanding of social dynamics and behaviors. Both methods are crucial in observational research, which often requires significant investment in terms of time, money, and sometimes a bit of luck to capture the nuances of social behavior.