Senior High School

Practical Research I
Quarter 2 - Module 5
Collecting Data through Observation and
Interview
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 Senior High School

Practical Research I
Quarter 2 - Module 5
Collecting Data through Observation and
Interview
Introductory Message
For the facilitator:
Welcome to Practical Research 1 Self-Learning Module on Collecting Data
through Observation and Interview!
This module was collaboratively designed, developed and reviewed by
educators both from public and private institutions to assist you, the teacher or
facilitator in helping the learners meet the standards set by the K to 12 Curriculum
while overcoming their personal, social, and economic constraints in schooling.
This learning resource hopes to engage the learners into guided and
independent learning activities at their own pace and time. Furthermore, this also aims
to help learners acquire the needed 21st century skills while taking into consideration
their needs and circumstances.
In addition to the material in the main text, you will also see this box in the body
of the module:

Notes to the Teacher

This contains helpful tips or strategies that will help

you in guiding the learners.

As a facilitator, you are expected to orient the learners on how to use this
module. You also need to keep track of the learners' progress while allowing them to
manage their own learning. Furthermore, you are expected to encourage and assist
the learners as they do the tasks included in the module.
For the learner:
Welcome to Practical Research 1 Self-Learning Module on Collecting Data
through Observation and Interview!
This module was designed to provide you with fun and meaningful opportunities
for guided and independent learning at your own pace and time. You will be enabled
to process the contents of the learning resource while being an active learner.
CONTENT STANDARD The learners demonstrate understanding of
the application of creative design principles
for execution, observation and interview
procedures and skills.

PERFORMANCE STANDARD The learners are able to gather relevant

information with intellectual honesty.

LEARNING COMPETENCY The learners are able to collect data through

observation and interviews.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES: At the end of the module, the learners are

expected to:
1. Differentiate observation and interviews
as a method in data gathering.

2. Collect data through observation and

interview.

3. Make an interview guide protocol and

protocol template for observation.

4. Simulate an interview applying the

concept and skills.

INTRODUCTION

In a research analysis, data serve as the basis. The related data in qualitative
analysis will come from four types of data collection: questioning, observing,
processing and evaluating (materials) and feeling. The difference between formal and
qualitative interviews draws particular interest when conducting interviews. Significant
judgments include deciding "what, when, and where" to observe with respect to
findings.
In this module, you will learn the techniques of data collection, mainly
interviewing and observing. The numerous activities provided in this module will make
you understand the beauty of qualitative analysis method of data collection.

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PRE - TEST

Directions: Read each item carefully and identify what is being asked or described.
Encircle the letter of the correct answer.

1. It is a rigorous, systematic and refined technique of thinking, employing

specialized tools, instruments and procedures in order to obtain a more
adequate solution to a problem.
A. Immersion
B. Inquiry
C. Investigation
D. Research

2. Which of the following types of primary data can be measured by

observation?
A. Attitudes and opinions
B. Motivations and intentions
C. Gender and current behavior
D. Motivations and present behavior

3. It is the verbal conversation between two people with the objective of collecting
relevant information for the purpose of research.
A. Conversation
B. Inquiry
C. Interview
D. Sharing

4. The following are parts of an interview Protocol EXCEPT:

A. Introduction
B. slowly withdrawn
C. Opening Question
D. Content Questions

5. If a researcher works at a factory and observes the workers without telling them,
it is an example of ____________________.
A. complete observer
B. complete participant
C. cbserver as participant
D. carticipant as observer

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6. Which role of the researcher playing in which he/she reveals his identity and
the research purpose to the group?
A. Complete observer
B. Complete participant
C. Observer as participant
D. Participant as observer

7. Which part of the interview protocol in which the researcher gets to know
participants to establish good interview atmosphere?
A. Introduction
B. Basic information
C. Content question
D. Opening question

8. Which of the following research qualitative gathering methods allows the

researcher to personally observe the participants and also to actively engage
in their activities?
A. Interview
B. Observation
C. Participant Observation
D. Focus Group Discussion (FGD)

9. It is an act of asking questions that requires instant answers.

A. Immersion
B. Inquiry
C. Investigation
D. Research

10. It refers to a method used for recording observation notes.

A. field notes
B. research site
C. determining your role
D. observational protocol

11. Which of the following is NOT an advantage of the communication method

over the observation method of data collection?
A. Accuracy
B. Cost
C. Speed
D. Versatility

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 12. Which of the following in not true about observation method?
A. Observation is expensive.
B. Observation is time-consuming.
C. Observation replaces interviewing.
D. Observation requires operational definitions.

13. Which of the following statements is false in the process of observing?

A. Before writing any notes, think of what catches your attention.
B. After recording observation, it should be arranged chronologically or in
order.
C. After observation, slowly withdraw by thanking the participants for their
time.
D. Gaining access through letter of consent is not necessary. You may start
the observation right away.

14. Which of the following is NOT a structured Interview?

A. Informal interviews
B. Planned interviews
C. Patterned interviews
D. Standardized interviews

15. At the start of the interview, the following are things to consider EXCEPT:
A. Open or unstructured questions asked in this step of the interview
B. Encourage respondent to talk about himself/herself including age,
family, etc.
C. Questions on the subject’s thoughts, attitudes or performance of his or
her job or any current work assignment.
D. Respondents give you hint on the right ways to ask your subjects the
questions that elicit the right data for your research.

REVIEW OF THE PREVIOUS LESSON

In the previous module, you learned about the different research
methodologies. According to Maxwell (2009), there are five, not necessarily
ordered or sequential, components in qualitative research designs; the goals,
conceptual framework, methods, validity and conclusion. How they are presented
depends upon the research philosophy and theoretical framework of the study,
the methods chosen and the general assumptions underpinning the study .

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PRESENTATION OF THE NEW MODULE
Using qualitative methodology ensures that data mainly in the form of words,
not numbers, would be produced. Different types of individual interviews (general or
key informants) and group discussions are some of the most common methods of data
collection. This section also addresses other types of data that may help you
understand them fully and apply them appropriately in your research paper.

ACTIVITY 1

Directions: Go outside of your house and look for any pet or animal. For 10 minutes,
try to observe and record carefully your observations on the animal. You
can note the size, movement, behavior, color, and everything you can
think of. Write your observations in the space provided.

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ANALYSIS

Directions: Answer the following questions briefly. Write your objective insight on the
space provided.

1. Based on the previous activity, how will you define observation as purposeful
data-gathering tool?
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

2. What type of data is usually collected using observation method?

______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

3. What do you think are the advantages and disadvantages of observation

method?
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

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ABSTRACTION
Qualitative methods of gathering research results are time intensive, so data is
typically obtained from a smaller sample than will be the case with quantitative
techniques, making qualitative research more costly. The advantages of the qualitative
approach are that the evidence is richer and provides a greater perspective into the
studied phenomena.

Interviews

Unstructured

• The interviews can be referred to as "depth" or "in depth". They have

so little system at all.
• The interviewer may go only to discuss a small number of subjects,
often as few as one or two.
• Based on the interviewee and his previous answer, the interviewer
can frame the interview questions.
• This encourages the debate to cover topics in great depth.
• They involve the researcher needing to know or read more about a
particular subject without a framework or a preconceived plan or
understanding as to how they can interact with the subject.
Structured

• In the same way, the interviewee will ask the respondent the same
questions using a closely organized plan.
• The questions which be expressed in order to include a restricted set
of answers, i.e. 'Do you rate our services as very decent, good or bad'
A researcher must decide whether a questionnaire or a formal
interview is more suitable.
• This does not cause the phenomenon under inquiry to be investigated
in terms of any scope or depth if the interview schedule is too closely
scheduled.
• Qualitative interviews should be somewhat casual and participants
know like they are engaging in a dialogue or debate rather than in a
formal question and answer situation.
• Skills are needed and are involved in effective qualitative analysis
methods that take careful thought and preparation.

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Steps in Conducting a Qualitative Interview (Creswell, 2007)

1. Decide whether interviews are appropriate.

Participants should consent to the interview process to begin with; otherwise,
this method is not required and would not include any useful details. Evaluate
if the data is sensitive and observation would be adequate to capture the
information necessary.
2. Choose the type of interview.
Would you use an interview that is orchestrated or unstructured? What type of
focus group debate or one-on-one interview are you going to use?

3. Invite Participants.
The participants should be sent a letter of approval and they must respond
confirming their consent before the interview session is held.

4. Develop an Interview Protocol.

It is a list of questions you will ask the interviewees, or guide questions. The
questions are based on your study questions and should be able to generate
the appropriate knowledge to answer your test questions.

5. Arrange the audio equipment.

Make sure the audio equipment is set. Your cellphone or some other audio
recording system can be used. In your letter of approval, it should be mentioned
that you are going to document the whole conversation and you are the only
one who will have access to it.

6. Arrange for a quiet setting.

It is preferable to have a convenient and peaceful location selected by the
participants.

7. Conduct the interview.

Before an interview, check the audio facilities. Next, present yourself to the
respondent interviewee and the study being done. Stay on the subject and up
to the time specified in the permission letter.

8. Follow-up after an interview.

After the talk, thank the interviewee and respect their wishes, such as copying
the abstract. In situations where follow-up is needed to explain those issues
posed during the interview process, it is important to let the interviewees know.

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Parts of an Interview Protocol (Creswell, 2007)

1. Basic Information about the Interview.

This requires the time and date of the interview, the venue of the interview, and
who the respondents to be questioned are.

2. Introduction.
This gives the interviewer guidance that will act as his/her reference while
performing the session. It is a requirement for the interviewer to present him or
herself, including the testing goals.

3. Opening Question.
This is about getting to know respondents so that they can feel at ease. Healthy
opening questions are questions connected to their job or hobbies. It's
necessary to avoid very personal questions.

4. Content Questions.
These are sub-questions that are focused on the core phenomenon being
studied.

5. Closing Instructions.
Thank the interviewee for his/her time.

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ACTIVITY 2

Directions: Make an interview guide protocol using the Parts of an Interview by

Creswell2007. You will be using this output in the next activity. You can
use the allocated sheet found at the end of the module.

Sample Interview Protocol

Background Information on Interviewee

Date:
Location:
Name:

Introduction
Good morning, Mr. Juan De La Cruz. My name is Mr. Gregg Adiz and I am
presently conducting a research about Grade 11 students’ experiences in their
basic calculus class. The objective of this study is to gather empirical data and
understand their experiences.

Opening Question
Tell me something about yourself, Mr. Juan De La Cruz.
How long have you been studying here?

Content Questions
Tell me about your Basic Calculus class.
Why do you say so? (Follow-up)
What do you mean by difficult? (probe question)
Can you provide concrete examples?

Closing Instructions
Thank you very much (Acknowledge the class for their time). I would like you to
know that I am the only one who will have access to this audio material and after
the research, the content will be erased. If you wish to have a copy of the abstract
of this research, I would be very willing to send you one. Do you have any
question?

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Observation
Observation involves the use of our sensory systems (including eyes and ears)
to record behavior. These measures are the basic data used to describe naturally
occurring behavior or to assess the effects of our independent research variable.
Therefore, they must be gathered with care. Observations such as these (judgments
that behavior has or has not occurred) are inherently more subjective than other data
collection procedures. Because judgments are based on our perceptions, the same
event occurring in the environment will be perceived differently by different people
(Lammers& Badea,2013).

Limitations with observation method include:

a. Change in people's behavior when they know they are being observed.
b. A 'snap shot' view of a whole situation.
c. Think Big Brother...
d. When observing and taking notes, the investigator can overlook
something.
e. The investigator can make decisions, make statements of importance
or misinterpret what has been observed.
Strengths of observation method:
a. It can offer a sense for what is happening.
b. It can give an insight into the bigger picture.
c. It can demonstrate sub-groups.
d. It can be used to help plan the remainder of the study.
e. Often, in order to be recognized and better grasp the workings of the
social phenomena, the researcher becomes or wants to become a
participating spectator, where he/she takes interest in the situation.

Observation may also obtain more accurate statistics about such aspects as
how persons really behave. It may also serve as a way to validate or nullify knowledge
provided in face-to-face encounters. It is possible to study people or the climate. It can
provide useful context knowledge as the area is studied, and can inform other facets
of the study.

Techniques for collecting data through observation

1. Written descriptions
The researcher offers written explanations of persons, circumstances or the
environment.
Limitations include:
• The researcher can miss an observation while taking notes.
• The researcher can concentrate on a single event or circumstance.
• There is room for contextual understanding of what's going on.

11
2. Video recording
Allows the researcher to also record notes.
Limitations may include:
• People acting unnaturally towards the camera or others avoiding the
camera.
• The camera may not always see everything.
3. Photographs and artifacts
It is useful when there is a need to collect observable information or phenomena
such as buildings, neighborhoods, dress and appearance. Artifacts include
items of interest, such as memorabilia, equipment, instruments and others.
4. Documentation
A local publication, notes on a notice board, internal processes and practices,
any of all forms of documents may be used to provide information.

Researcher’s role in participant observation

a. Participant as observer
• The researcher explains to the community his identity as a researcher and his
research purpose.
• Researcher participates in the activities that the group does in daily basis.
• Advantage: Researcher could ask questions in the research subjects to
enhance his understanding.
• No ethical issues to be concerned with.

b. Observer as participant
• An observer for the research to be studied.
• Researchers’ identity and purpose is declared.
• Observe without taking part in the activities.
• Advantage: Can focus on your researcher role; can concentrate on your
discussion with the group.
• Disadvantage: Lack of emotional involvement, no real feelings.
• No ethical issues to be concerned with.

c. Complete participant
• Researcher tries to become a member of the sample population.
• Researcher does NOT reveal the identity.
• Researcher does NOT reveal the purpose.
• Position of spy.
• Ethics:
o Researcher is trusted by the group with a very close relationship.
o Researcher is shared with information that they would not share if they
know your true purpose.

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d. Complete observer
• When observing, the researcher does NOT reveal the intent of the activity.
• The researcher is NOT active in the activity of the sample population.
• Ethics: What is the group's consensus on their personal data?

Steps in the Process of Observing (Creswell, 2007)

1. Select the research site.
This applies to the location where the core phenomenon or subject being
researched can be better understood. The first phase needed for a researcher
to obtain access by a letter of consent is a prerequisite.

2. Develop observational protocol.

A methodology used for recording observation notes is the observational
protocol. This encompasses both abstract or descriptive and reflective or
teaching depending on what has been learned.

3. Focus the observation.

Think on what captures your interest before taking some notes. There's going
to be a lot on the web, so concentrate your observation only on what makes
you grasp the question of your study.

4. Determine your role.

As a scholar, what are you going to be? Will you be an observer member, or a
non-observer participant?

5. Record field notes.

Document what you observe with the five senses, using the observation
protocol. The study should be ordered chronologically or in sequence.

6. Slowly withdraw.
Slowly withdraw after observation by thanking the participants for their time.

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ACTIVITY 3
Direction: Write an observation protocol template like the one shown below and
gather the information about the topic.

Observation Topic:
What are the experiences of Grade 11 students as they study in new
normal set-up? (Due to some restrictions you can observe any member of
your family who is schooling or your closest neighbor.)

(Sample observation protocol)

Observation Protocol

Duration of Activity: 30 minutes

Topic: What are the experiences of Grade 11 students as they study in new normal
set-up? (Due to some restrictions you can observe any member of your family who
is schooling or your closest neighbor.)

Descriptive Notes Reflective Notes

Start of observation: 8:30 A.M

The student woke up 8:43 A.M I wonder if this student always

wake up late.

Source: Creswell, Qualitative Inquiry And Research Design: Choosing Among Five
Approaches

14
APPLICATION

Directions: Perform a simulation of an interview based on the given topic. The

construction of your sentences/paragraphs will be rated according the
given rubric below. Make use of a cellphone Video recorder to record the
interview. Upload your videos in our subject Facebook group and submit
your interview notes during the retrieval of modules.

Interview Simulation
Simulate an interview using the interview protocol you made in Activity 2.
Make use of Video recorder and notes to record the interview.

Rubric

Parameters 5 4 3 2
Preparation Before the Before the Before the The student
interview, the interview, the interview, the did not
student prepared student prepared student prepared prepare any
several in-depth a couple of in- several factual questions
AND factual depth questions questions to ask. before the
questions to ask. and several interview.
factual questions
to ask.
Politeness Student never Student rarely Student rarely Several
interrupted or interrupted or interrupted or times, the
*Self assess- hurried the person hurried the hurried the student
please keep being interviewed person being person being interrupted or
in mind while and thanked them interviewed and interviewed, but hurried the
interviewing!! for being willing to thanked them for forgot to thank person being
be interviewed. being willing to the person. interviewed
be interviewed. AND forgot to
thank the
person.
Formatting The student edited The student The student The student
and Editing and organized the edited and edited and did NOT edit
transcript in a way organized the organized the or organize
that made the transcript in a transcript but the the transcript.
information clear way that made information was
and interesting. the information not as clear or as
clear.

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 interesting as it
could have been.

Follow-up Interviewer It is obvious, It is not quite It is obvious

communicates most of the time, obvious the the
well and knows that interviewer interviewer interviewer
what s/he is going practiced. S/he practiced. S/he has not
to say. Asks 2 or communicates communicates practiced.
more clarifying well and ask at but may need S/he did not
questions that least one support. Does communicate
may not be clarifying not ask any well or know
answered in one question. clarifying what to say.
word. There is a questions.
sequence to the
questions.

POST-TEST

Directions: Read each item carefully and identify what is being asked or described.
Encircle the letter of the correct answer.

1. It refers to a method used for recording observation notes.

A. field notes
B. research site
C. determining your role
D. observational protocol

2. It is a rigorous, systematic and refined technique of thinking, employing

specialized tools, instruments and procedures in order to obtain a more
adequate solution to a problem.
A. Immersion
B. Inquiry
C. Investigation
D. Research

3. Which of the following types of primary data can be measured by

observation?
A. Attitudes and opinions
B. Motivations and intentions
C. Gender and current behavior
D. Motivations and present behavior

16
4. Which part of the interview protocol in which the researcher gets to know
participants to establish good interview atmosphere?
A. Introduction
B. Basic information
C. Content question
D. Opening question

5. The following are parts of an interview Protocol EXCEPT:

A. Introduction
B. slowly withdrawn
C. Opening Question
D. Content Questions

6. If a researcher works at a factory and observes the workers without telling them,
it is an example of:
A. Complete observer
B. Complete participant
C. Observer as participant
D. Participant as observer

7. Which role of is the researcher playing in which he/she reveals his identity and
the research purpose to the group.
A. Complete observer
B. Complete participant
C. Observer as participant
D. Participant as observer

8. It is the verbal conversation between two people with the objective of collecting
relevant information for the purpose of research.
A. Conversation
B. Inquiry
C. Interview
D. Sharing

9. Which of the following research qualitative gathering methods allows the

researcher to personally observe the participants and also to actively engage
in their activities?
A. Interview
B. Observation
C. Participant Observation
D. Focus Group Discussion (FGD)

17
10. It is an act of asking questions that require instant answers.
A. Immersion
B. Inquiry
C. Investigation
D. Research

11. Which of the following in not true about observation method?

A. Observation is expensive.
B. Observation is time-consuming.
C. Observation replaces interviewing.
D. Observation requires operational definitions.

12. Which of the following statements is false in the process of observing?

A. Before writing any notes, think of what catches your attention.
B. After recording observation, it should be arranged chronologically or in
order.
C. After observation, slowly withdraw by thanking the participants for their
time.
D. Gaining access through letter of consent is not necessary. You may start
the observation right away.

13. Which of the following is NOT an advantage of the communication method

over the observation method of data collection?
A. Accuracy
B. Cost
C. Speed
D. Versatility

14. At the start of the interview, the following are things to consider EXCEPT:
A. open or unstructured questions asked in this step of the interview
B. Encourage respondent to talk about himself/herself including age,
family, etc.
C. questions on the subject’s thoughts, attitudes or performance of his or
her job or any current work assignment
D. Respondents give you hint on the right ways to ask your subjects the
questions that elicit the right data for your research.

15. Which of the following is NOT a Structured Interview?

A. Informal interviews
B. Planned interviews
C. Patterned interviews
D. Standardized interviews

18
 19
POST-
TEST
1. A
ACTIVITY 1 2. A
3. C
- Answers may vary. 4. A
ACTIVITY 2 (A sample is provided in the module) 5. B
6. C
- Answers may vary. 7. C
ACTIVITY 3 (A sample is provided in the module) 8. C
9. D
- Answers may vary. 10 A
11. C
12. D
APPLICATION (to be rated according to the given rubric)
13. A
- Answers may vary. 14. A
15. A
ANALYSIS (Answers may vary) PRE-TEST
1. A
1. Observation is description of events, behavior and evidence using
the 5 senses. 2. C
2. The characteristics of individual people, including their dress, 3. C
gestures, and nonverbal behavior; 4. B
3. 5. C
6. C
Advantages Disadvantages
7. A
• Provides first-hand experience • Observed behavior might be
• Observer might move beyond unclear. 8. D
selective perceptions of • Personal biases and selective 9. A
participants in the setting. perception of observers 10 A
• Good for description. • More expensive 11. A
• Provides moderate degree of • Time consuming.
12. C
realism
13. D
14. A
15. A
ANSWER KEY
REFERENCES

Crewell, John W. Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, And Mixed Methods

Approaches. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage, 2003.

Crewell, John W. Qualitative Inquiry & Research Design: Choosing Among Five
Approaches. 2nd ed. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage, 2007.

Turner, Daniel W., III. "Qualitative Interview Design: A Practical Guide For Novice
Investigators". The Qualitative Report 15, no. 3 (2010): 754-760.
http://www.nova.edu/ssss/QR/QR15-3/qid.pdf.

Von Diether, Barbara. Writing Chapter 3: The Methodology. Ebook. 2016.

http://dissertationwriting.com/write-dissertation-methodology-help.shtml.

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For inquiries or feedback, please write or call:

Department of Education – Schools Division of Surigao del Norte

Peñaranda St., Surigao City
Surigao del Norte, Philippines 8400
Tel. No: (086) 826-8216
Email Address: surigao.delnorte@deped.gov.ph

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