William Rathje and Cullen book “Rubbish!: The Archaeology of Garbage” investigated the anthropological, ecological, and cultural effects of trash disposal. Researchers in the Garbage Project employ observational research to learn about people’s consumption habits and waste output by sorting and analyzing their trash. They manually sift waste and collect information on food and household goods packaging.
Webcams allow researchers to observe people in public spaces, including plazas, streets, parks, and sports fields. Nonverbal behavior, such as facial expressions and body language, can be captured via webcams, providing insight into the attitudes and feelings of the participants. How do shoppers react at stores when they are made aware of webcams, and how do they react when they aren’t? is a question that could be investigated. Retail stores might utilize webcams to monitor customers’ actions, such as how long they spend in different departments, the products they pick up and put back on the shelf, and how they interact with sales associates. The research could influence participants’ perceptions of being watched and monitored.
Data collection methods account for the differences in the survey, observational, and mechanical-based studies. Surveys use self-reported data provided by participants; observational studies involve the researcher observing the target under study in natural settings. Mechanical-based studies gather data without human intervention using machines and sensors. Naturalistic observation is another ethical way to “observe” hand-washing behavior. This method is unmanipulated, and researchers record activity without interfering. This method is less invasive and more accurate for real-world conduct.
Claims that Sea Snapper’s product is superior are substantiated when the company shows the methodologies it uses to make that an unsubstantiated claim. Sea Snapper does not provide evidence whatsoever about the fishing practices it employs to guarantee the quality and viability of the product. Sea Snapper data needs to be more comprehensive to warrant strict catch restrictions and constant tracking of fish populations for sustainable fishing. The firm needs to provide proof of its investment in quality control to ensure product integrity since the data is essential for evaluating the effectiveness of quality assurance. Neither the company’s strategies for keeping product freshness nor competitor comparisons are disclosed.
The tasting test showed that brand knowledge affects soft drink consumption and attitudes. The results show that the branded taste test can bias results since participants consume more of their favored brand and rank it higher than the blind taste test. This indicates that brand recognition and familiarity might impact consumer perceptions and preferences, making recognized brands more likely to be purchased (Ramkumar & Liang, 2020). This experiment helps organizations modify their marketing efforts by revealing how brand knowledge affects consumer behavior. Companies can improve their branding efforts by understanding brand recognition and familiarity. This can involve investing in marketing activities that build brand recognition and consumer-resonant solid brand identity. Companies can use consumer insights to create products and services that fit consumer wants and preferences, increasing customer happiness and loyalty.
Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter have allegedly conducted user trials. These studies may involve changing users’ feeds or notifications to determine how it affects their platform usage or content consumption. Since social media platforms don’t disclose their research, such tests may happen. Given their history of user experimentation, they may still be experimenting with minor nudges. Facebook’s lab and field experiments depend on the study design. Some tests are done in a lab, while others manipulate platform circumstances. Social media experiments can use and exploit users without consent. This violates ethics and damages platform confidence. Facebook should prioritize transparency and informed support for future investigations. Users should be notified of platform tests and given a choice to opt-out. Facebook should also consider ethical and independent research oversight.
References
Ramkumar, B., & Liang, Y. (2020). How do smartwatch price and brand awareness drive consumer perceptions and purchase intention? A perceived value approach. International Journal of Technology Marketing, 14(2), 154-180.
Rathje, W. L., & Murphy, C. (2001). Rubbish!: the archaeology of garbage. The University of Arizona Press.
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