17 Observations

Matilda is conducting a study on the behavior of dolphins in a marine park. Define and give 1 pro and 1 con of Focal sampling and Scan sampling in the context of her research.

Answer explanation

Focal sampling involves observing specific individuals or events, providing detailed data (pro). However, it may miss broader patterns (con). Scan sampling involves quick observations over time, capturing trends (pro), but lacks depth (con).

Sophie recorded the temperature of the bearded dragon enclosure at the same time every day for a week and got consistent results. Are these results reliable or valid?

• Reliable

• Valid

• Not reliable

• Not valid

• I'm not sure

Answer explanation

The scenario describes reliability because the same results were obtained consistently across three observations. Reliability refers to the consistency of results, while validity pertains to the accuracy of what is being measured.

Neha recorded enclosure use by looking at how long the bush dogs spent in each area of their enclosure. Is this valid or reliable?

• Reliable

• Valid

• Not reliable

• Not valid

• I'm not sure

Answer explanation

The scenario describes validity because it assesses whether the method of recording enclosure use accurately reflects the bush dogs' behavior in their environment.

Isabella checked if the otters were on a suitable diet by checking their weight, taking fecal and blood samples, and doing a health check. Is this valid or reliable?

• Reliable

• Valid

• Not reliable

• Not valid

• I'm not sure

Answer explanation

The scenario describes validity because it assesses whether the otters are on a suitable diet by using relevant measures like weight, fecal, and blood samples, which directly relate to their health and diet.

Neha and I got different results when we recorded resting behaviours in the elderly goats. How would you describe these results?

• Reliable

• Valid

• Not reliable

• Not valid

• I'm not sure

Answer explanation

The scenario indicates inconsistency in results from different keepers, which suggests a lack of reliability in the measurement of resting behaviors. Therefore, it is 'Not reliable'.

Is the scenario describing reliability or validity? Aarav checked if the bush dogs were well-trained by recording the type of food they are given.

• Reliable

• Valid

• Not reliable

• Not valid

• I'm not sure

Answer explanation

The scenario is not valid because checking the diet of rabbits does not accurately assess their socialization. Validity refers to whether a test measures what it claims to measure, and in this case, it does not.

Emily measured the temperature of the water in the penguin pool every hour and got consistent readings. How would you categorise this?

• Reliable

• Valid

• Not reliable

• Not valid

• I'm not sure

Answer explanation

The scenario describes reliability because consistent readings of the water temperature indicate that the measurement process produces stable results over time.

Match the description to the term

• Record what is happening at set time

• Focal Sampling

• Watch one individual

• Interval Sampling

• Watch a group of animals

• Scan Sampling

• Note occurrence & duration of behaviours

• Continuous Sampling

Isabelle is conducting a study on animal behavior for her biology class. She needs to create a detailed record of the different behaviors exhibited by the animals she observes. What is an Ethogram?

Answer explanation

An ethogram is a comprehensive catalog of behaviors exhibited by a species, used in ethology to study animal behavior systematically. It helps researchers identify and classify actions, providing insights into animal interactions and ecology.

What are the pros and cons of in-person observations in a behaviour research project at a zoo?

Answer explanation

In-person observations allow for direct interaction and nuanced understanding of behaviors, fostering deeper insights. However, they can be time-consuming and may introduce observer bias, affecting the objectivity of findings.