Research Methods - Research Context Flashcards
What is a primary challenge when researching pupils compared to adults?
Power and status differences, as children have less power than adults in school settings
This makes it hard for them to express views, especially against authority.
Why might pupils struggle with research questions?
Limited vocabulary, self-expression, and thinking skills
These limitations can affect their understanding of questions and informed consent.
What ethical considerations must researchers take into account when working with children?
Careful consent from parents, teachers, and the child is required
Child protection is crucial, and researchers should consider whether children’s participation is necessary.
What do ethical guidelines like those from UNICEF and Barnardo’s provide for research involving children?
Special codes of practice to protect children’s rights more stringently than general research guidelines
These guidelines are designed to ensure the safety and rights of child participants.
What is essential for researchers to gain when working with children?
Building rapport and gaining children’s trust
Matching the gender of the researcher and participant may help in establishing this trust.
Why do teachers present challenges in research settings?
Teachers may put on a show to impress the researcher
They are experienced in being observed, affecting the authenticity of their responses.
What factors constrain teachers’ actions during research?
Heads, governors, parents, and pupils
These constraints can limit how teachers respond or behave in research settings.
What are the characteristics of classrooms that affect research?
Boundaries on access and behaviour, making them less open environments for research
Both teachers and students may hide their true thoughts or feelings.
What social dynamics may influence research in school-based groups?
Peer pressure and the need to conform
Supervision may be needed when students complete questionnaires.
How may researchers be perceived within schools?
As outsiders by both students and teachers
Students may see them as teachers, while teachers may view them as inspectors.
What access challenges do researchers face in schools?
Head teachers and governors can deny access if they believe research will disrupt the school’s work
They may also steer researchers away from sensitive areas.
What type of data are schools legally required to collect on students?
Attendance and achievement data
This information can be useful for sociologists studying educational outcomes.
What is a limitation regarding school records for researchers?
School records are confidential, and access may be restricted
While some data is available publicly, many documents are not accessible to researchers.
How do parental influences impact education?
Through child-rearing and involvement in school activities
Activities include parent-teacher meetings and homework support.
What barriers might sociologists face when researching parents?
Social class and ethnicity differences
These factors can affect the willingness of parents to participate in research.
