title: Observation: a valuable data collection strategy for research with children.
abstract: This study introduces the basic concepts of observational research by defining the terms and discussing some of the critical issues specific to observational research. Observational methods signify a systematic approach to quantifying behavior. A discussion of the major concerns in observational research is presented. These concerns include defining the coding categories; identifying the unit of measurement, the method of recording the observation, and deciding on a sampling strategy; training of observers; and interrater and intrarater reliability.
authors: M L
authors: ML
authors: Lobo
mesh_terms: D015400:Clinical Nursing Research / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D003625:Data Collection / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D010371:Pediatric Nursing; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012107:Research Design / Q000592:standards; D009626:Terminology as Topic