Methodologies Flashcards
Theory
A way of understanding and explaining society.
Methodology
A way of investigating society. Refers to the conceptual, logical, and research procedures by which knowledge is gathered and developed.
Quantitative Research
Involves methodologies which enable data (concrete or conceptual) to be collected, measured and compared with a standard. e.g. closed surveys, structured interviews and sociograms.
Qualitative Research
Collects detailed and less measurable data. Sociologists try to experience and understand the more subjective viewpoints of the social situation. e.g. unstructured interview, focus group, open-ended questionnaire and participant observation.
Survey
It can use different instruments such as observation, interviews or a written list of questions (questionnaire). The process of conducting a study from representative samples of specific populations.
Case Study
Similar to ethnographic case study. Involves the collection of data related to an individual or small group through observation, interviews and the collection of documentary evidence.
Participant Observation
Based on observation of a group where the researcher takes part in the group or community being studied. The researcher is immersed in the action being observed but their role as researcher is not obvious. Must be aware of ethical implications.
Content Analysis
The study and interpretation of written and visual material.
Focus Group
A small group (3-8 persons) whose members are brought together by the researcher for an in-depth discussion of a specific issue or topic. Researcher schedules a time and place and plans an interview schedule. A tape recorded is also needed. Similar to interview, researcher needs to be able to manage up to 8 people talking about the topic.
Action Research
Informal, qualitative, interpretive, reflective and experimental methodology that requires all participants to be collaborative researchers. Carried out by people who recognise a problem or limitation in the workplace or community and, together devise a plan to counteract the problem, implement it and observe what happens, reflect on the outcomes, revise the plan, implement it, reflect, revise and so on until the most desirable outcomes for all participants are achieved.
Interview
May be tightly structured, semi-structured. unstructured, in-depth or conversational. One to one situation.
Questionnarie
A commonplace instrument for collecting data beyond the physical reach of the researcher, from a large diverse sample of people. Impersonal instrument for collecting info. Must be brief and contain clear logical questions, designed to fulfill a specific research objective.
Observation
Involves watching and recording behaviours within a clearly defined area. The researcher plays the role of passive observer and is outside the actions being observes and recorded.
Statistical Analysis (data analysis)
Examining data to interpret meaning, make generalisations and extrapolate trends. Data often comes in graphs, and should be evaluated and interpreted by means of appropriate mathematical or statistical procedures.
Ethnographic Study
The systematic collection of data derived from direct observation of the everyday life of a particular society, group or subculture. Requires the researcher to immerse in the culture under study and is an interactive process. The researcher is interested in understanding the customary actions, beliefs, knowledge and attitudes of the group.
