Describe the reasons for selecting situations to observe.

Observation journal reports require the researcher to combine theory, research and analysis learned in the classroom with methods of observation and practice applied outside of the classroom. The purpose of the weekly observation journal is to describe an observed person, place, or event and to analyze that observation data to identify and categorize common themes in relation to the material studied.

WEEKLY CHECKLIST

Header is required.
Class BA 352
Name (First and Last Name)
Week and date(s) of observation (or memory recall)
Organization observed (DO NOT IDENTIFY BY NAME only by description: industry, size, stage of the business cycle, etc.)
Include a copy of the journal prompts along with your responses.
Each weekly submission is limited to 2 typewritten pages (11pt. font Times Roman or Arial, single-spaced, 1-inch margins.)
Limit your response to the questions of that week’s study.
Three background resources need to be cited (MLA citation style.) Background resources are to be resources that help you define the behaviors you are observing. For example a document on another organization that may be have had to address the same issue you are observing: poor communication, motivation theories, leadership styles etc.
Spell and grammar check (consider peer review.)
Submit via Canvas for evaluation by submission date.
Be prepared to discuss in class.

FORMAT OF EACH SUBMISSION

I. Introduction

The introduction should describe the nature of the organization or setting where you are conducting the observation, what type of observations you have conducted, what your focus was when you observed, and the methods you used for collecting the data. Conclude your introduction with a statement about how the rest of the paper is organized.

II. Description of Observations in response to the weekly questions.

What — describe what you observed.

Where — provide background information about the setting of your observation.

When — record factual data about the day and the beginning and ending time of each observation.

Who – Note the background and demographic information about the individuals being observed e.g., age, gender, ethnicity, and/or any other variables relevant to your study. Record who is doing what and saying what, as well as, who is not doing or saying what. If relevant, be sure to record who was missing from the observation.

Why — Describe the reasons for selecting situations to observe. Note why something happened. Also, note why you may have included or excluded certain information.

III. References

List all sources that you consulted and obtained information from while writing your observation report. Be sure to write them in citation style. For formatting support: Purdue Online Writing Lab (Links to an external site.)

HOW TO BEGIN

Select an organization to study in which you have easy access to and will be able to follow for the duration of the term. Complete the observation report with the intention of improving your understanding of key theoretical concepts through a method of careful and structured observation of and reflection about real-life practice.

Examples of Things to Document While Observing

Physical Setting. The characteristics of occupied space and the human use of the place where the observation(s) are being conducted.
Objects and material culture. The presence, placement, and arrangement of objects that impact the behavior or actions of those being observed. If applicable, describe the cultural artifacts representing the beliefs–values, ideas, attitudes, and assumptions–used by the individuals you are observing.
Use of language. Don’t just observe but listen to what is being said, how is it being said, and, the tone of conversation among participants.
Behavior cycles. This refers to documenting when and who performs what behavior or task and how often they occur. Record at which stage is this behavior occurring within the setting.
The order in which events unfold. Note sequential patterns of behavior or the moment when actions or events take place and their significance.
Expressive body movements. This would include things like body posture or facial expressions. Note that it may be relevant to also assess whether expressive body.

Observation Journal 2 Prompts:

A. Describe the specific facets the members of the organization consider (value fulfillment,satisfaction with the work) when evaluating their job satisfaction? How does the organization manage job satisfaction?

B. Describe how the organization manage the stress of it’s members?

C. Describe why some members of the organization are more motivated than others. (Describe the motivational theories that apply.)

D. Describe how members of your organization learn and how does it affect their decision making? How does the organization foster learning?

Observation Journal
Observation Journal
Criteria Ratings Pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeContent
All parts of the prompt (questions) are clearly addressed.
25.0 pts
Full Marks
0.0 pts
No Marks
25.0 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeOrganization
Observation journal entries follow format: header, prompt (questions) are followed by response.
5.0 pts
Full Marks
0.0 pts
No Marks
5.0 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeUsage and Writing Conventions
Accurate use of course terminology and writing conventions.
5.0 pts
Full Marks
0.0 pts
No Marks
5.0 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeWorks Cited
Three additional sources (works cited) are used to support the description of behavior documented.
15.0 pts
Full Marks
0.0 pts
No Marks
15.0 pts