Instruction
Naturalistic Observation
For this assignment, you will conduct naturalistic observation of three individuals representing three different stages of development. Specifically, one of the individuals should be a child (6-10years), one should be an adolescent (13-20years), and one should be an adult (30 years or older). Each observation should be conducted individually (e.g., not as a pair – parent and child). The individuals you observe may be people whom you know or those whom you are unfamiliar with (please indicate how you know the individuals you observe). Each observation should be of at least 10 minutes in duration. The observations may occur at home, school, or a public setting (e.g., shopping mall, subway, park). Solitary activities (e.g., playing video games, talking on the phone) should not be utilized for observations. (You may use family members, friends, etc... If you cannot find other people to observe then please find a youtube video with people of the approximate age). I understand that you maybe quarantine.
For each observation, you are to take extensive notes on what you observe (these notes should be submitted with your analysis – you can scan & submit handwritten notes that you take during the observation but your analysis MUST be type-written). You should not interact with the individuals, you are an observer not a participant. You should position yourself close enough to observe verbalizations and facial expressions, etc.; however, place yourself distant enough so that you do not interfere with what is occurring.
When you have completed the observations, make note of the following for each individual:
Behavioral appropriateness
Emotional displays and development
Language development and skills
Physical appearance, growth, and development
Social development and interactions
Relationship of the individual to you or others
Any other relevant factors
Finally, complete a summary that makes comparisons across the three individuals with regard to the factors noted above. In other words, what did you notice that was different or similar across the individuals with regard to emotional, language, physical, etc.
Estimated page length of your comparison 3-4 pages.