Exam CBAP topic 1 question 123 discussion

BABOK Alignment: Shadowing is an elicitation technique where the analyst follows a stakeholder and may participate in their tasks to understand their processes (BABOK Section 4.3.4). Martha’s participation in Sarah’s work to learn the steps aligns with this definition. Scenario Fit: The phrase “working alongside Sarah” and “helping Sarah complete the work” indicates Martha is actively involved, which is characteristic of shadowing, not just observing.

Babok V3 pg 306 - Active observation is when you observe and ask questions, ask why they are doing it that way etc but not Actual Participation. Once you start to do the work too its beyond observation its more apprenticing (or sometimes called shadowing).

Active observation involves the observer (Martha) not only watching but also participating in the task or process to gain a deeper understanding of the steps involved. By helping Sarah complete the work, Martha is engaging directly, making this active observation rather than passive observation, where she would simply watch without interaction.

"There are two basic approaches for observation: Active/Noticeable : (...) A variation of this method may involve even stronger intervention into actors' activities by stimulating them to perform specific tasks." (BABOK V3 pg 306). If Martha is involved in doing specific tasks, then she is an actor and is practicing active observation. Answer is D

Can someone please explain why the answer is not C? Matha was practically helping Sara do the job. That is no longer an 'observation' in my opinion. Eager to know what other people think