Final answer:
The student is referring to observational methods that include naturalistic observations, where behavior is watched in a natural environment, and structured observation, such as the Strange Situation experiment, to watch specific behaviors linked to attachment styles. Another method is participant observation, used in in-depth case studies.
Step-by-step explanation:
The variation of informal observation mentioned involves a naturalistic and somewhat structured approach, focusing on nonverbal communication behaviors, play behavior, and verbal language during observation. Naturalistic observations aim to understand behavior in a natural context, such as a playground or home environment, wherein the observer allows the child to engage in typical activities without interference. Structured observation, on the other hand, includes scenarios where children are observed while engaging in specific tasks, like the scenario presented in the Strange Situation experiment devised by Mary Ainsworth to study attachment styles between infants and caregivers. In a clinical or case study, an observer might employ a method known as participant observation, where the researcher immerses themselves in a group to observe behaviors and interactions from an "insider" perspective.