Identifying a behavior to observe

1) Identify a behavior to observe (i.e. public transportation etiquette in NYC or elsewhere, families at play in a park, dog owners at a dog run, shoppers with friends; student behavior in the computer lab or library; pace of movement on sidewalks, taxi-hailing practices), a definition for the behavior, your population, and a location for observation. Be specific.

2) Now watch and record (1 hour at least). You are not to interact with people or intervene in any situation to manipulate the setting. You are not to ask anyone questions about their behaviors. Again, simply watch and record. NOTE: You are to pick a SAFE space to engage in observation. The naturalistic observation cannot take place at your place of employment. Use common sense and good judgment. For example, observations in a bar or a dangerous location ARE NOT ALLOWED.

3) Keep a notebook of all your observations.

For the DB: Provide us with the information from item 1 (above) as well as a summary of your findings and the experience. Finally, discuss some of the challenges to this exercise.

Ensure it is an appropriate location and no talking is done during the recording. A copy of the recording must be included. The DB should be a minimum of 250 words not to exceed 300 words.