Human Services/ Research Methods

      1. Prepare for the field: • Read Babbie’s guidelines for recording field observations (Chapter 10) (Babbie, E. (2017). The basics of social research (7th ed.). Boston, MA: Cengage) • Select a setting (park, your house, or anywhere that can ensure your safety) • If you decide to go out to a park for an observation, make sure you wear a mask, and keep at least 6 feet social distancing from people. • Review the guidelines for protection of human subjects before completing the observation. 2. Conduct and record the observation: • Date and Time: Record date, time, and duration of the observation • Describe the setting: o Describe the setting and your reasons for choosing it for your observation o Discuss any problems you experienced in gaining access to the site • Record your observations: o Observe and record. Take scant notes while you observe. o Expand on your notes as soon as possible after the observation. o Be explicit and clear in your description of the behaviors and interactions you observed. 3. Identity inferences and reflect • Read your field observation report. • Underline any inferences (what you think really happened and what you think you heard). • Reflect on your personal thoughts and feelings about one of the inferences you underlined. 4. Evaluation: Summarize what you learned from this assignment