Question

What are two sources of bias during an observation period

Answer 1

The two Sources of Bias during an observation period are:

1. Observer or Experimenter Bias, and

2. The tendency of observers to infer meaning from what was observed.

1. Observer or Experimenter Bias - This may occur as every individual has a unique personality. Observer or experimenter bias may also occur when the observer is aware of the research being conducted and his or her knowledge on the subject may interfere with the interpretation made on the current observational study. Obserever bias can lead to misinterpretation of the study.

2. The tendency of observers to infer meaning from what was observed - Observer need not always interpret behavior. The obersever in a study has to note down the presence or absense of behavior or certain behavior in some cases. Interpretation of the bahavior is required when the case is being stuided later and not during the time of observation.

Example - An observer dealing with paranormal activities may interpret the unexplained noises or changes in polarity to the sprits. The noises maybe just unexplained and the changes in the polarity may be due to the fluctuations of the earth.