The observer effect is when researchers tend to subconsciously (or sometimes consciously) influence participants of their study to lead them in a favourable direction. This is a dangerous one especially for designers who do their own user research. That is why it is generally not recommended to conduct usability research on your own designs. This can be in the form of leading questions during the study, subtle communication of the study expectations, or even altering or selective recording of the results.
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#21: Observer effect, Designing for…
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The observer effect is when researchers tend to subconsciously (or sometimes consciously) influence participants of their study to lead them in a favourable direction. This is a dangerous one especially for designers who do their own user research. That is why it is generally not recommended to conduct usability research on your own designs. This can be in the form of leading questions during the study, subtle communication of the study expectations, or even altering or selective recording of the results.