Final answer:
Ethnographic research is the method of gathering data by observing what customers do without directly asking them, which involves participating in and observing a social setting.
Step-by-step explanation:
Data gathered by simple observation that involves seeing what customers do rather than asking them refers to ethnographic research. Ethnographic research, as a method within field research, involves participating and observing thinking and behavior in a social setting. It is characterized by the researcher immersing themselves in the environment or the culture of the group being studied, often taking on the role of a participant as well as an observer.
Unlike other research methods, such as surveys or experiments, ethnographic research does not start with a specific hypothesis to test. Instead, it focuses on understanding how individuals view themselves in relation to the communities they are part of. This approach is often used by sociologists who employ an interpretive framework, seeking to gain an in-depth understanding of social dynamics and cultural practices.
Field research like ethnography is valuable for collecting qualitative data and establishing correlations which illuminate patterns and social facts from the perspective of participants and outsiders. It takes place in natural settings, such as workplaces, social gatherings, or community environments, allowing researchers to gather data that reflect the authentic experiences and behaviors of individuals in their own social contexts.