Techniques of Observation Method

Observation always involves some interaction between respondent and researcher in which researcher has an opportunity to watch respondent function. The researcher prepares an observation guide to structure the observations and trains the observers in its use.
The task posed for the observer can range from purely descriptive to the judgments.

For example if the observer is asked to rate the effectiveness of the nurse-teacher in implementing of those methods. It is essential to note that the less structure in the guide and the more judgment is required, the more the observers description will be reflected in the data, and the more structured and descriptive the guide, the more researcher will be able to control the creation of the data.
In direct observation technique the observer obtains data by simply watching the research situation. The indirect observation technique includes motion pictures, television, videotape or other devices far recording. The events in research situation are recorded or transmitted so that observer sees the research situation indirectly.

Participant observation techniques, whereby the observer is integrated into the research situation as an active participant, have the advantage of making the research situation, more natural, but the disadvantage is of assigning a complex responsibility to the participant observer.