Naturalistic observation

/ˌnætʃ.ɚ.əˈlɪs.tɪk ˌɒb.zɚˈveɪ.ʃən/ noun

Definition

A research method involving systematic observation and recording of behavior in its natural setting without intervention or manipulation.

Etymology

From Latin 'naturalis' (by birth, according to nature) + 'observatio' (a watching). Observing nature as it is.

Kelly Says

Naturalistic observation is people-watching for science — you watch behavior in the real world without interfering, catching how things really happen naturally.

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