Research methods key terms

Question 1

Observation schedule

Answer 1

A flr, used to record observations using predetermined categories

Question 2

Positivist

Answer 2

Make accurate observations and measurements which stand up to scrutiny

Question 3

Cluster sample

Answer 3

A subject population grouped conveniently together in one place

Question 4

Quota sample

Answer 4

Subjects are selected because they represent groups in the total population often used in market research

Question 5

Empirical facts

Answer 5

Knowledge gained through scientific observations

Question 6

Systematic sampling

Answer 6

every nth term

Question 7

Stratified sampling

Answer 7

Sample that’s representative of the total population

Question 8

Bias

Answer 8

BiasPeople’s (often unconscious) values and preferences that shape their understanding and actions. Researchers’ bias will affect how they conduct research and interpret their findings.

Question 9

Control Theory

Answer 9

The idea that people do not commit deviant acts because various factors control their impulse to break social norms.

Question 10

Hypothesis

Answer 10

An idea that can be tested by research.

Question 11

Interpretivism

Answer 11

An approach to research that aims to understand motives and meanings behind behaviour. It is particularly associated with collection of qualitative data.

Question 12

Positivism

Answer 12

An approach to research that is based on the scientific method and is particularly associated with collection of quantitative data.

Question 13

Response Rate

Answer 13

The number of people who complete a survey divided by the number who made up the total sample.

Question 14

Informed Consent

Answer 14

Respondents understand and agree to participate in a research project.

Question 15

Interactionism

Answer 15

A theoretical perspective that focuses on small-scale everyday social interactions.

Question 16

Observation schedule

Answer 16

A form used to record observations using predetermined categories.

Question 17

Pilot Study

Answer 17

A small-scale trial to test a particular research method before using it in a research project.

Question 18

Cluster Sample

Answer 18

A subject population grouped conveniently together in one place.

Question 19

Quota sample

Answer 19

Subjects are selected because they represent groups in the total population (e.g. age, gender) often used in market research.

Question 20

Random Sample

Answer 20

A group selected for research at random from a particular sampling frame. To be truly random everyone in the group must stand an equal chance of selection.

Question 21

Snowball Sample

Answer 21

Each member of a group of respondents is asked by a researcher to recommend someone who is known to them and who is in a similar situation.

Question 22

Stratified sample

Answer 22

A sample selected to represent groups within the total population (similar to a quota sample)

Question 23

Systematic sample

Answer 23

The systematic selection of names from a list, e.g. every tenth name.

Question 24

Interviewer bias

Answer 24

This occurs when interviewers influence the answers given by a respondent.

Question 25

Semi-structured interview

Answer 25

This combines some of the features of a structured and unstructured interviews.

Question 26

Non-participant observation

Answer 26

The researcher watches and observes without taking part in the activities of the group.

Question 27

Observer Effect

Answer 27

Group members alter their behaviour because they are being observed.

Question 28

Participant observation

Answer 28

The researcher takes an active part in the activities of the group while observing it

Question 29

Attrition rate

Answer 29

The drop-out rate from a longitudinal study.

Question 30

Longitudinal Study

Answer 30

A study that tracks a cohort over intervals of an extended period of time looking to track changes in the lives of the individuals involved.

Question 31

Social mobility

Answer 31

The movement of an individual either up or down the social scale, e.g. the working class student who obtains a university degree and enters a profession (upward mobility).

Question 32

Observation

Answer 32

A research method involving either covert (hidden) or overt (open) observations of a social group.

Question 33

Qualitative data

Answer 33

Information presented in a variety of forms that is rich in descriptive detail

Question 34

Quantitative data

Answer 34

Information presented in a numerical form.

Question 35

Reliability

Answer 35

Data is reliable if research can be repeated and consistently produces similar results.

Question 36

Subjective

Answer 36

Judgements that are based on personal opinions.

Question 37

Unstructured interview

Answer 37

An informal conversation that allows the respondent to talk freely about the general theme agreed for the interview.

Question 38

Validity

Answer 38

Data is valid if it gives an accurate pictures of the social world.

Question 39

Ethnography

Answer 39

The scientific study of different people and cultures.

Question 40

Life Histories

Answer 40

Qualitative research that provides an overall picture of an informant’s or interview’s life experiences.

Question 41

Representative

Answer 41

A researcher’s data/sample is not biased but accurately reflects the wider population being studied.

Question 42

Triangulation

Answer 42

The accuracy of data gathered using one method can be compared with data gathered using alternative methods, e.g. questionnaires, interviews and secondary sources.

Question 43

Content Analysis

Answer 43

The analysis of documents or visual material, e.g. newspapers or television broadcasts.

Question 44

Empirical facts

Answer 44

Knowledge gained through scientific observation.

Question 45

Demography

Answer 45

The study of population trends.

Question 46

Nominal data

Answer 46

A simple count, e.g. the number of times a particular type of behaviour is observed.

Question 47

Ordinal data

Answer 47

Counting in categories arranged in rank order