Imagine that you are tasked with exploring ways to improve worker productivity at a local business. Which of the following is the best way to avoid the Hawthorne effect? (Assume the employees have consented to being observed.)
A) Make your presence known to the employees every day.
B) Tell employees that they may be observed while working, but do not actually observe them.
C) Use hidden cameras, microphones, or other unseen devices to monitor productivity.
D) Tell the workers that you will be evaluating their productivity, and any poor performance will be flagged.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Hawthorne effect occurs when individuals modify an aspect of their behavior in response to their awareness of being observed. The best way to avoid this effect is by observing without the subjects knowing they are being observed, as in option C, using hidden devices. This allows for the collection of more genuine data on worker productivity.

Imagine That You Are Tasked with Exploring Ways to Improve