Research Methods & Social Inequalities - methods in sociological research Flashcards
What does ‘quantitative research’ refer to in sociology?
Research that focuses on numerical data and statistical analysis.
True or False: Qualitative research in sociology is primarily concerned with understanding meanings and experiences.
True
Fill in the blank: _____ is a method where researchers observe subjects in their natural environment without interference.
Naturalistic observation
What is a survey in sociological research?
A method of gathering data by asking people questions through questionnaires or interviews.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a method of qualitative research? A) Interviews B) Focus Groups C) Experiments D) Ethnography
C) Experiments
What is the purpose of using a case study in sociological research?
To conduct an in-depth analysis of a particular individual, group, or event.
True or False: Longitudinal studies collect data at multiple points in time.
True
What is the main advantage of using experiments in sociological research?
They allow researchers to establish cause-and-effect relationships.
Fill in the blank: _____ involves collecting data from a large number of people to generalize findings to a larger population.
Surveys
What type of qualitative research involves the researcher immersing themselves in a community?
Ethnography
Multiple Choice: What is the main focus of content analysis? A) Understanding social norms B) Analyzing written or visual materials C) Conducting interviews D) Observing behavior
B) Analyzing written or visual materials
What is the difference between primary and secondary data?
Primary data is collected firsthand by the researcher, while secondary data is previously collected data by others.
True or False: Focus groups are a method that gathers qualitative data through group discussions.
True
What is a disadvantage of using surveys in sociological research?
They may suffer from low response rates or biased responses.
Fill in the blank: The _____ method uses systematic observation to record behavior as it occurs.
Observational
Which research method is primarily used for hypothesis testing in sociology?
Experiments
Multiple Choice: Which method is best for exploring complex social phenomena? A) Surveys B) Case Studies C) Experiments D) Content Analysis
B) Case Studies
What is ‘sampling’ in the context of sociological research?
The process of selecting a subset of individuals from a larger population for study.
True or False: Mixed methods research combines both qualitative and quantitative approaches.
True
What is the significance of reliability in research methods?
It refers to the consistency of a research study or measuring test.
Fill in the blank: _____ is a research method that requires the researcher to analyze existing data and literature.
Secondary data analysis
What is the role of ethical considerations in sociological research?
To ensure the rights and well-being of participants are protected.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a qualitative method? A) Surveys B) Experiments C) Interviews D) Statistics
C) Interviews
What does ‘validity’ mean in sociological research?
It refers to the accuracy of a measure or the extent to which it measures what it claims to measure.
True or False: Secondary data is always less reliable than primary data.
False
What is the purpose of a pilot study?
To test the feasibility and design of a research method before the main study.
Fill in the blank: _____ studies are conducted to understand how social phenomena change over time.
Longitudinal
What is a limitation of observational research?
It may be subject to observer bias and does not allow for manipulation of variables.
Multiple Choice: Which research method is least likely to provide causal explanations? A) Surveys B) Experiments C) Case Studies D) Focus Groups
A) Surveys
What does ‘triangulation’ mean in research?
Using multiple methods or data sources to enhance the credibility of research findings.
True or False: Quantitative research is often criticized for lacking depth in understanding social phenomena.
True
What is the main goal of sociological research?
To understand social behaviors, structures, and patterns.
