t&meth Flashcards
What is external validity?
Our ability to generalise the research findings to wider society.
External validity assesses the extent to which research results can be applied to settings beyond the study context.
Define expectancy effect.
A form of experimenter bias. It refers to the fact that what a researcher expects to happen in the experiment can affect its actual outcomes.
This effect can influence both participants’ responses and the researcher’s interpretation of results.
What does internal validity measure?
The extent to which the researcher is measuring what was intended.
High internal validity means that the results are likely due to the manipulated variables rather than other factors.
What is an interview schedule?
A list containing a set of structured questions that have been prepared to guide interviewers in collecting information or data about a specific topic or issue.
This tool helps ensure consistency across interviews.
What is non-participant observation?
Researchers collect data by observing behavior without actively interacting with the participants.
This method allows researchers to gather data in a natural setting without influencing the behavior of subjects.
Define ethnographic study.
The study of people in their own environment through the use of qualitative methods.
Ethnography focuses on understanding cultural practices and social interactions.
What is grounded theory?
A research theory to describe the modification of the hypothesis during the actual course of the research itself.
Grounded theory emphasizes developing theories based on data collected from participants.
What does thematic analysis involve?
A qualitative analysis of the content of media texts.
This method identifies and interprets patterns or themes within qualitative data.
Define social facts.
Institutions/norms/values/laws external to an individual with the coercive power to control aspects of their life.
Social facts are key concepts in sociology that help explain social phenomena.
What is inductive reasoning?
Drawing a general conclusion (theory) from a set of specific observations.
Inductive reasoning is often used in qualitative research to develop theories based on observed data.
What is deductive reasoning?
Testing an existing theory.
This approach involves starting with a general statement and examining the possibilities to reach a specific, logical conclusion.
Define verificationism.
Involves collecting evidence with the aim of proving a theory correct.
Verificationism emphasizes the importance of empirical evidence in validating theories.
What is a paradigm?
A set of norms, or a kind of culture, that tells individuals how to think and behave.
Paradigms shape the frameworks through which researchers view the world.
What is a paradigm shift?
When an alternative set of ideas challenges the mainstream perspective, leading to a shift in ideas.
Paradigm shifts can result in significant changes in scientific understanding and practice.
Define falsificationism.
Involves attempting to prove a theory is wrong by seeking evidence that would falsify it.
This approach is crucial in the scientific method for testing the validity of theories.
What does value free mean?
Objectively examining a social issue without letting your own prejudices/opinions influence your research.
Value-free research aims to maintain objectivity and neutrality.
What is meant by value laden?
Framing or deciding your topic of research based on your personal values.
This can lead to biased interpretations in research.
Define objectivity.
Impartiality, lacking prejudice or bias when researching.
Objectivity is essential for credible research outcomes.
What is subjectivity in research?
Interpreting research based on personal feelings/opinions.
Subjectivity can influence research findings and conclusions.
What is a social problem?
Some piece of social behaviour that causes public friction and/or private misery and calls for collective action to solve it.
Social problems often require policy intervention or community action.
Define sociological problem.
Any aspect of social life whether ‘normal’ or ‘deviant’ that calls for explanation.
Sociological problems are studied to understand the underlying social dynamics.
What is piecemeal social engineering?
A policy that takes a gradual approach to dealing with a social problem.
This approach contrasts with radical changes and focuses on incremental improvements.
