Social Research - Elements and Process

Question 1

Define the process of social research and the three scopes it operates in

Answer 1

Social research is seen as the systematic and organised process used to investigate particular matters that may require a solution.

Social Research operates in the scopes of:
- political
- economic
- socia;

Question 2

Occurrence and the theoretical basis

Answer 2

It does not occur in a vacuum. Theories are used to assist researchers in their findings and research. The work’s content and results is often influenced.

Question 3

Assumptions

Answer 3

• views and assumptions influence the social research process.
• epistemological considerations reflect on the scientific and social aspects.
• the nature of the social phenomenon influences the said process.
• sometimes, there is constant social change in the world.
• values and ethics within communities have an important effect on the work being researched

Question 4

Literature Review

Answer 4

• the process of investigating the research topic before embarking on the topic.
• avoids repetition.
• the aspects investigate what is
  * known already
  * applied theories
  * what compels people to study it
  * the key contributors of the matter.

Question 5

Concepts & Theories

Answer 5

This aspect of research assists the researcher in organising their ideas and represents the points of research. Concepts also assist in obtaining a theory that is well aligned with the topic.

Question 6

Research Question

Answer 6

Research questions assist in aligning with the goals of the research topic. They allow the researcher to stay on track and obtain accurate findings.

Question 7

Sampling

Answer 7

Sampling refers to the group of study under the framework in which parameters are set on the particular group.

Question 8

Types of Sampling

Answer 8

• Representative sample: an accurate reflection
• Sampling bias: there is a sense of bias/distortion
• Probability sample: random selection of the studied group.
• Non-probability sample: specifically selected group of study.
• Census: The general population group.

Question 9

Data Collection & Analysis

Answer 9

Ways in which information on the research topic is collected and utilised.
- Comes in forms of: interviews. questionnares or obstervations/
- Analysis can occur via: thematic, content, secondary and discourse.

Question 10

Writing up Social Research

Answer 10

When writing up research, the following has to be considered:
- Introduction, purpose outline.
- Literature Review, discuss the known.
- Research Methodology, utilisation & justification.
- Results, what was found.
- Discussion, data interpretation.
- Conclusion, key findings.

Question 11

Messiness of Social Research

Answer 11

• Import to acknowledge that social research is not a smooth process.
• With all varying factors, it is important to be thorough.
• What we read does not always reflect the difficulties that were faced during research, eg; false starts.

Question 11

Essay end:

Answer 11

When conducting social research, it is essential to understand the basis and understanding what goes into the process thereof. There is an immense sense of responsibility when it comes to balancing the aspects of social research, the ethics within and the element of scientific inquiry.