The assignment requires you to apply your theoretical knowledge of participant observation to practical social life settings.

Plan your observation: 

The assignment requires you to apply your theoretical knowledge of participant observation to practical social life settings. For this task, you are supposed to opt for any one of the social settings like the restaurant, Public Park, shopping mall, marriage ceremony, death event, bus or railway station, airport, or any other social setting (Don’t go to risky or sensitive areas or settings). 

After selecting of social setting observe all the situations and note down all the mentioned points and prepare your write-up in three given sections. 

Report writing consists of: 

• Introduction/Background

• Observatory analysis

• Conclusion

The report should cover below mentioned points and can add more. 

Background (detail of selected social setting, time, day, the reason to select specific setting, duration (at least 3-4 hours). (100 words) 

Observatory findings: (200-250 words) 

Write down complete observations like social-cultural aspects, interaction patterns (formal/informal), verbal/nonverbal communication, people, their actions, age, gender, social class, and important features of social settings. (Make sure your analysis should be clear and comprehensive as this part has more weightage) 

 Conclusion: (100 words) 

Conclude your report with important findings and personal learning through this activity. 

Solution:

Title: Participant Observation in a Shopping Mall

Introduction/Background:

In this assignment, the objective is to apply participant observation as a research method in a real-life social setting. The chosen social location is a shopping mall, a vibrant and diverse environment that offers numerous opportunities for observation. The observation took place on a Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm, allowing for a substantial duration of approximately four hours. The purpose of selecting a shopping mall was to explore various social and cultural aspects, interaction patterns, and communication dynamics within this setting.

Observatory Analysis:

During the observation period, several notable findings emerged from the analysis:

• Social and Cultural Aspects: 

The shopping mall attracted a diverse range of individuals from different backgrounds. People of varying ages, genders, and social classes were observed. Families, couples, friends, and individuals were all present, creating a microcosm of society within the mall. The presence of multiple cultures was evident through diverse clothing styles, languages spoken, and ethnicities represented.

• Interaction Patterns: 

The interaction patterns observed in the shopping mall were primarily informal. Friends engaged in lively conversations while shopping together, families shared meals in food courts, and couples walked hand-in-hand. Interactions between customers and salespersons were generally polite and transactional, with limited personal engagement. Informal interactions seemed to dominate, reflecting the relaxed and casual nature of the environment.

• Verbal/Non-Verbal Communication: 

Verbal communication in the shopping mall included conversations between individuals, announcements over the public address system, and sales promotions by store staff. Non-verbal communication was prevalent through body language, facial expressions, and gestures. People's attire and personal styles also communicated social identity and self-expression.

• People and Actions: 

The mall was bustling with activity, with people engaged in various activities such as shopping, eating, socializing, and browsing. Some individuals were engrossed in their smartphones, while others were focused on their children or exploring store displays. People's actions reflected their motivations and interests, creating a dynamic atmosphere.

• Age, Gender, and Social Class: 

Observations revealed a diverse age range, including children, teenagers, young adults, and older individuals. Gender representation appeared to be balanced, with both males and females present in equal numbers. Regarding social class, individuals from different socioeconomic backgrounds were observed, as evidenced by their clothing choices, brands they shopped at, and overall demeanor.

• Essential Features of the Social Setting: 

The shopping mall had a well-organized layout, with multiple floors and a central atrium. It offered a wide range of stores, including clothing boutiques, electronics outlets, and food establishments. Facilities such as restrooms, seating areas, and escalators were conveniently placed to enhance the shopping experience. The mall also incorporated elements of entertainment, such as a play area for children and occasional live performances.

Conclusion:

The participant observation in the shopping mall provided valuable insights into various social aspects and interaction patterns. The diversity of people, their actions, and the social dynamics within the setting highlighted the mall's role as a vibrant public space. The observation demonstrated the importance of non-verbal communication and the influence of social class on individuals' behaviors. This activity enhanced my understanding of the complexities and nuances of everyday social interactions. Overall, participant observation in a shopping mall allowed for a comprehensive exploration of social settings and provided valuable learning experiences.