Observation is an obvious means of collecting data in educational settings.
Observing PED use in a natural setting is almost impossible because PED consultation
is a private activity, and one which learners are often inclined to be
secretive about (Nesi and Haill 2002). Video recording users, a method employed
by Jopling (2003) when investigating the use of CD-ROM dictionaries,
may not be a practical means of researching PED use since PED users may often
hunch over their PEDs when consulting them, and block the view of the video
camera. Although 'spy' software has some potential as a means of observing
online dictionary use (through keystroke logging and screenshots), it cannot be
loaded into the standard PED. Although PED consultation is a private activity,
observing its use may provide us with a better understanding of how students
really use their PEDs.