Biased research does not get worth at all and no researcher wants to waste his efforts, time, and money. If you are also worried about the reliability of your work, you should be aware of different aspects of bias. One of the most commonly detected types is observer bias. Therefore, this article aims to discuss observer bias in detail to let readers know about it.
What is Observer Bias in Research?
Observer bias in research occurs when there is a lack of accuracy in data collection from the side of observer. In research work, one of the data collection techniques is observation. In this data collection technique, a researcher is supposed to observe people and other aspects as per the demand of research problem. Before using this technique, it should be confirmed that you are experienced as a researcher. Without experience, there are huge chances of error in the collected data. As a novel researcher, you cannot hit the expected level of critical evaluation of behavior or other scenarios. In observer bias, the lack of experience does not let you ignore your personal opinion and you remain unable to judge the real perspective of any particular happening.
2What are Different Examples of Observer Bias While Working on Research?
In order to understand the observer bias, you can take the example of pressure in the tire of an automobile. Whenever there is a need to check the pressure in a tire of automobile, you are supposed to extract some of the air. If you do not have an idea about its process, then it is obvious that the value you will note would not be precise at all and then you will get inaccurate results.
Another example that can help you understand observer type bias is the reflection of light. When you have to observe non-luminous objects, in this case, you have to hit the light on that particular object which is under study. The light hits that object, and this phenomenon causes the reflection of light through that object. So, you can see that someone who is unaware of the basic requirement cannot meet the right end results.
Which Preventions Can Help You Avoid Observer Bias in Research?
Following are the preventions that you must ensure for avoiding observer bias and get genuine research:
Concentrate on Hypothesis and Research Question
In research work, you have to make a hypothesis or research question based on the nature of work. In both cases, you have to develop things on ground basis. When you express imaginary assumptions, it creates complexion in the end, which causes observer bias in research. It is the very first step to start research work; if you do not find the right surface to set, you should go for dissertation proposal writing service for active assistance.
Climax Multiple Facets of Research
In order to avoid observer bias in research, you need to focus on the aspects which cause it. When you keep sharing one facet of the problem and the other one is totally neglected, it shows that research is biased in nature. At the time of data collection through observation, you need to focus on multiple aspects of the designed problems. In this way, the reader remains satisfied that the problem is well observed and handled by the researcher.
Shadow the Sincere Context of Research
There are several types of bias in research, and each type needs a special cure. One of the types is observer bias which is very common to see while collecting data for research. For example, you may conduct interviews and observe the physical actions of respondent for data collection. If you are using your mother language, there can be chances that some of the respondents would not get it. So, this approach does not let you collect genuine data for research. By using the standards language and style, you can make it undertakable for all respondents.
Go for Peer Review
Peer review is not just required at the end of research, but you should ensure it at every stage, from planning to finalizing. The professionals can better guide you if there is observer bias in research. With the help of this approach, you can identify mistakes on the spot, and there would not be a big loss regarding effort and time. Also, peer review helps you strengthen the area of observation. In this case, you must ensure that the person who will review your work should be professional, so you may not be in a random direction. In this regard, dissertation writers UK can provide you professional researchers.
Properly Engage other Members of the Group
At the time of working on a research problem, you need to ensure proper engagement between all group members. When everyone is aware of all the nitty and gritty of research, you can surely determine the flaws of observation in no time. When you see that all group mates are satisfied with the discussed points and interpretation is also the same, it means there is no observer bias in research. Also, you need to ensure that you have successfully achieved all goals of the research, so it can better stand out.
Be Careful about the Relevant Records
One of the best supports for your research work is the presence of record. This strategy can help you prove anything, anytime. In the case of writing a dissertation, you should have all the records with you. Your advisor may ask you to observe again and make amendments to the research work. When you revise your document, there is no need to discard the last document, but keep everything safe.
Similarly, you have to be careful about the data files. All raw, organized, and analyzed data files should be in a safe place. It can help you prevent your research from observer bias and prove it anytime.
Final Thoughts
The above-mentioned points can help you very well to understand the causes of observer bias with the help of examples. Furthermore, prevention can help you end up with reliable research which is free from observer type of bias.
