Discuss the ethical implications of using observation and survey methods to measure physiological responses during an investigation of aerobic training. (6 marks)
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*PEEL – Structure solution using separate PEEL methods for each side of the argument; [P] Identify the point, [E] expand on the point with a link to question asked, [Ev] apply evidence/examples, [L] linking sentence back to question.
Sample Answer
Benefits of Direct Observation Methods
- [P] Direct observation of breathing patterns and physical signs provides accessible data collection during aerobic training sessions.
- [E] Observing breathing rate, skin colour changes, and sweating patterns enables researchers to gather physiological response data.
- [Ev] Visual assessment methods ensure no equipment barriers and allow continuous monitoring throughout exercise sessions.
- [L] Therefore observation methods offer practical advantages for school-based aerobic training investigations without expensive equipment.
However, this approach presents ethical challenges
- [P] Continuous observation during exercise can make participants feel self-conscious, uncomfortable, and anxious about their performance.
- [E] Participant discomfort raises serious ethical concerns about privacy and dignity during physical exercise sessions.
- [Ev] Some participants may alter their natural exercise behaviour or feel embarrassed about visible signs of exertion.
- [L] Consequently researchers must carefully consider participant consent and ensure respectful, non-intrusive observation methods.
Alternative Perspective on Survey Methods
- [P] Post-exercise surveys asking about perceived exertion and breathing difficulty are less invasive and more private.
- [E] Survey methods create better ethical conditions by allowing participants to self-report their experiences privately.
- [Ev] However these methods rely on subjective responses that may be less accurate than direct observation.
- [L] Despite this ethical research prioritises participant comfort and privacy while maintaining useful data collection.
*PEEL – Structure solution using separate PEEL methods for each side of the argument; [P] Identify the point, [E] expand on the point with a link to question asked, [Ev] apply evidence/examples, [L] linking sentence back to question.
Sample Answer
Benefits of Direct Observation Methods
- [P] Direct observation of breathing patterns and physical signs provides accessible data collection during aerobic training sessions.
- [E] Observing breathing rate, skin colour changes, and sweating patterns enables researchers to gather physiological response data.
- [Ev] Visual assessment methods ensure no equipment barriers and allow continuous monitoring throughout exercise sessions.
- [L] Therefore observation methods offer practical advantages for school-based aerobic training investigations without expensive equipment.
However, this approach presents ethical challenges
- [P] Continuous observation during exercise can make participants feel self-conscious, uncomfortable, and anxious about their performance.
- [E] Participant discomfort raises serious ethical concerns about privacy and dignity during physical exercise sessions.
- [Ev] Some participants may alter their natural exercise behaviour or feel embarrassed about visible signs of exertion.
- [L] Consequently researchers must carefully consider participant consent and ensure respectful, non-intrusive observation methods.
Alternative Perspective on Survey Methods
- [P] Post-exercise surveys asking about perceived exertion and breathing difficulty are less invasive and more private.
- [E] Survey methods create better ethical conditions by allowing participants to self-report their experiences privately.
- [Ev] However these methods rely on subjective responses that may be less accurate than direct observation.
- [L] Despite this ethical research prioritises participant comfort and privacy while maintaining useful data collection.