Instructions for participant observation

The participant observation method will be used within the research process in situations where it is crucial to delve deeper and reveal the reality of Agenda 2030 and its SDGs implementation in a specific context.

 

Participant observation (qualitative, unstructured approach to observation) is regarded as one of the methods of collecting primary qualitative information within the research. It involves the researcher immersing themselves in a social setting for an extended period, closely observing the behaviour of individuals within that environment (such as a group, organisation, or community) to understand the significance and the meanings they assign to their surroundings and actions. The level of participation can vary significantly, depending on the extent to which the researcher engages in the social settings (Clark et al., 2021).

 

Participation may involve listening to conversations between others and asking questions “in the field”, helping the researcher view the situation or a social setting from the perspective of others. This method might be an additional tool for the mentioned semi-structured interview/focus group approach since participant observers are typically in closer and longer-term contact with the respondents. It also offers a deeper understanding of the context behind people's behaviours and actions within the social setting. However, many topics and questions cannot be observed directly and require interviews for deeper investigation. The relevance of using either participant observation or interview/focus group methods greatly depends on their suitability for the research objectives and proceedings. Additionally, the participant observation method includes conducting some interviews or discussions during the observation process with the key respondents and participants of the social setting (Clark et al., 2021).

 

Before starting the participant observation, it is important to clearly outline the specific behaviours, interactions, or contexts the researchers are interested in exploring. Then, it is necessary to choose a relevant social setting that aligns with the research objectives, ensuring that it is an environment where participants are comfortable, and, for sure, it is obligatory to obtain permission to observe within the setting, explaining the main goal of the research and gain participants’ consent. During the observation process, researchers should take detailed notes to document their observations (including, for example, dates, time, descriptions of events, interactions). Participants’ privacy and confidentiality must be ensured in advance. Collected data should be anonymised. Informed consent should be obtained, where it is necessary. It is also essential for the researcher mainly to observe and not to engage in activities where appropriate. If permitted (and appropriate), audio and/or video recording tools might be considered to supplement the observations (participants must be informed about possible recording).