Although structured observation may be observing what is happening, researchers are rarely participate in the activity in the social environment (Bryman, 2012, p273). Participant observation, on the other hand, entails the researcher to immerse themselves in a group setting for an extended period of time to observe the behaviour in the given social setting (Bryman, 2012, p273). When looking for an instrument for the research on the role of social media in the lives of teenagers, the level of researcher participation is an important aspect to consider. .
Structured observation, for several reasons, is seen as a far superior instrument of choice for social researchers to employ in this context. The teen years of many childrens life is seen as the most private and changing period (Rodriquez de le Sieera & Schachter, 2013, p25). For a researcher to employ a participant research method would require them to make not only a rapport with the teenagers physically, but also in the teenagers cyber reality. This would mean the participants accepting you while encouraging them to be themselves (Forum: Qualitative Social Research, 2005). This immensement in the participants life would be difficult to participate in even if it was a covert or overt observation. Structured observation, on the other hand, would allow the researcher to observe all while not being a part of the social context. In regards to the social media's role in teenagers lives, a structured observation in a non-participant role gives the research enough access to observe and learn about the participants, while still allowing them to undertake their normal daily routine relatively uninfluenced. .
Structure of Observation Methods .
As defined by Bryman "structured observation, often called systematic observation, is a technique in which the researcher employs explicitly formulated rules for the observation and recording of behaviour" (Bryman, 2012, p272).