Name: _____________________________________________________ Date: ______________________________ Period: _______
Observations – Quiz 1 Review & Redo Opportunity
Read about the following types of observations: quantitative, qualitative, objective, subjective.
Quantitative Observations
Observations made while using the scientific method can be quantitative or qualitative. Observations are
quantitative if they return numerical data. When numeric values are recorded, the observations are more
objective and quantifiable. Other people performing the same analysis can make observations using the same
quantitative method as was originally used. If any type of statistical analysis is done, it is important to make
quantitative observations while using the scientific method. In the drooping plant example, quantitative
measurements could include the number of days the plant spent in the sun after it was moved there. Because
the number of days would be a concrete value, it would be possible to record that value as a tangible, objective
number.
Qualitative Observations
Qualitative research is when observations are recorded without capturing numeric data values. This type of
observation is more subjective and relies on the researcher's interpretations of why a particular event or
behavior happens. For instance, a researcher might look at a plant and state that it looks very brown. This
observation would be in contrast to a quantitative measurement where the researcher reported that the plant
leaned 1.27 centimeters (0.5 inches) to the left.
Objective Observation
Scientists strive for objectivity in their observations to bolster the validity and reliability of the findings.
Observational techniques involve carefully measuring, weighing, calculating and calibrating to ensure that all
predetermined steps of the experiment are exactly followed. Variables are tightly controlled to support
researcher confidence in the results. Observations are quantified with statistical calculations, graphs and
spreadsheets. Experimenter bias can impact the study adversely and limit generalization about the observed
results to a larger population.
Subjective Observation
Social scientists use subjective observational techniques to probe for information that may not be obtainable
through lab tests or survey instruments. For example, researchers studying adjustment issues of combat
veterans might organize a focus group to observe and interview returning soldiers. Social scientists recognize
that researchers’ own beliefs and past experiences may influence their observations and interpretation of data.
Researchers acknowledge this potential for bias when reporting results based on personal observations.
Define and give an example of each:
Quantitative observation
Qualitative observation
Objective observation
Subjective observation
Identify each of the following statements as qualitative/quantitative and objective/subjective observations.
1. It was 98° on the day of the pool party.
2. Isabella wore a red swim suit.
3. Maggie drank three cups of juice.
4. Andrew’s cannon ball made the biggest splash.
5. The swimming pool was 10 meters long.
6. Isabella wore SPF 40 sunscreen.
7. The sunscreen smelled good.
8. Steve hiked for 2.5 hours.
9. A large piece of plastic covers the pool.
10. Nick crossed the pond where it was the narrowest.
11. Jeff measured out 56 mL of sodium hydroxide.