Qualitative Methods
Can be objective and subjective. Descriptive rather than numerical. Exam questions tend to focus on participant observation. Much sociological research depends on observations.
OBSERVATION
People have to stop behaving for a questionnaire, but not when they are observed. Minimal involvement is observation, but deliberate involvement is 'participant observation'.
USE AND ADVANTAGE OF PARTICIPANT OBSERVATION
Studied in natural environment.
Can see what is important to them rather than imposing a view through questions.
Can share in the behaviour and see their perspective. This is why interactionist sociologists favour PO.
PO, esp. if covert, means that subjects won't change their behaviour.
It's easier to study people like criminals or outsiders.
J. Patrick covertly studied a Glasgow gang using a false name.
PROBLEMS AND DISADVANTAGES OF PO
Theoretical issues:
It's more scientific to be detached and studying from the outside.
Research may change behaviour in itself.
Sharing a point of view may encourage bias.
PO can't be replicated, verified or refuted.
Studied groups are likely to be unrepresentative.
Practical Problems of PO
Time consuming
Access difficult to some groups, esp low-class/status.
Access difficult when undercover as may need to be the same gender or race.
Hard to ask questions and record behaviours.
Ethical Issues
Behaviour may be criminal.
Deception of subjects is unethical.
Professional codes usually require consent.
Publication may occur without consent.
Not all PO is covert, and PO is not the only covert method.
Extra Information
PO can't be repeated because a different researcher may experience things differently.
There's covert and overt research. A overt researcher can gain the trust of the group.
Human behaviour is reflexive, i.e. people can think about their actions. Sociobiologists and evolutionary psychologists see much behaviour as natural, but sociologists don't.
There's some debate as to how much of behaviour is natural, eg. Feminists have criticised functionalists for suggesting that the division of labour might be natural.
Some PO can be things like video cameras etc.