Van Rheede van Oudtshoorn, G. P.2019-07-122019-07-122001Van Rheede van Oudtshoorn, G. P. (2001). Waarneming as data-insamelingsmetode in gemeenskommunikasie. Communitas, 6, 53-74.1023-0556 (print)2415-0525 (online)http://hdl.handle.net/11660/10086Observation is by definition an activity that human beings partake in on a daily basis. As a research tool observation has to a great extent been limited to certain sub-disciplines - specifically Anthropology. Due to the qualities of observation as a method of gathering data one can, of course, easily motivate the use of observation in research focused on Communication Science. Although the nature of observation as activity is very subjective, very distinct steps can be taken to enhance the credibility of observation through the professional use of field notes in its various forms, as well as by complementing the observation by other data gathering methods. The process involved in using observation as a tool in research methodology is also quite explicit. Perhaps the biggest decision to take in a research study involving observation is on which level the observation will take place; in other words what the extent of participation on the part of the researcher will be. The extent of openness and disclosure regarding the activities and role of the researcher towards the objects of observation also warrant consideration.afObservation in researchCommunicationData gatheringArticleUniversity of the Free State