quantitative methods

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

Quantitative approaches usually reflect the view that sociological research should be based upon scientific methods of direct, systematic observation and the gathering of empirical evidence. Positvist

Question 2

Limitations

Answer 2

It is not totally objective because the researcher is subjectively involved in the very choice of a problem as worthy of investigation and in the interpretation of the results.
interpretive critique of questionnaires - collect a much narrower and sometimes superficial dataset
results are limited as they provide numerical descriptions rather than detailed narrative and generally provide less elaborate accounts of human perception
the research is often carried out in an unnatural, artificial environment so that a level of control can be applied to the exercise.
in addition preset answers will not necessarily reflect how people really feel about a subject and in some cases might just be the closest match.
the development of standard questions by researchers can lead to ‘structural’ bias and false representation, where the data actually reflects the view of them instead of the participating subject.

Question 3

Advantages

Answer 3

allow for a broader study, involving a greater number of subjects, and enhancing the generalisation of the results.
Using standards means that the research can be replicated, and then analysed and compared with similar studies.
personal bias can be avoided by researchers keeping a ‘distance’ from participating subjects and employing subjects unknown to them

Question 4

methods

Answer 4

questionnaires
structured interviews
statistical data
content analysis
quantitative data analysis

Question 5

bulletpoints

Answer 5

Correlation and causation
patterns and trends
value freedom
falsification
critical/feminist criticisms – the potential for exploitation of subjects