Sociology Research Methods

Studies and data that is rich in detail and description, usually given in non-numerical data (words) rather than numbers. this allows for meanings and opinions to be explored.

Studies and data that is numerical and statistical. It is more factual and precise.

A research method involving a carefully designed situation in which the researcher studies the impact of certain variables on subjects’ attitudes or behaviour.

The study of social life in its natural setting: observing and interviewing people where they live, work, and play.

Sociological perspective based on the assumption that society is a stable, orderly system.

A research method using a data-collection encounter in which an interviewer asks the respondent questions and records the answers. It can be structured and/or unstructured.

A research method in which researchers collect systematic observations while being part of the activities of the group they are studying.

The sociological approach that attempts to explain social life in modern societies that are characterized by postindustrialization, consumerism, and global communications. It's about choice.

A research method containing a series of questions to which subjects respond. They can be open and/or closed.

In sociological research, the extent to which a study or research instrument yields consistent results. It can reproduce similar results it the method was repeated.

A research method in which researchers use existing material and analyse data originally collected by others.

A large scale reaseach method aiming to make general statements about a particular population.

A survey that is conducted over a period of time on the same group of people.

A testing method carried out before the main one, to iron out any problems.

Research methods carried out by the researcher themselves.

The extent to which a study or research instrument accurately measures what it is supposed to measure.

Sociological perspectives that focus on the significance of gender in understanding and explaining inequalities that exist between men and women in the household, in the paid labour force, and in the realms of politics, law, and culture.

Where a representative sample of the population is chosen using known characteristics of the population.

Where a representative sample of the population is chosen by entirely random methods.

A list used as the source for a random sample; or in selecting a sample.

Where a sample is obtained using a series of personal contacts.

This refers to moral concerns about the benefits and potential harm of research - to the people being researched, to the researcher themself, and to society.

An approach to Sociology that stresses the exploitation of the majority by a small and powerful 'ruling class'.

Macro, structural; believe it is important to look at society as a whole.

Micro, interpretive; analyses society by studying the ways in which individuals interpret the world.

Where the researcher does not admit to being a researcher.

Where the researcher is open about doing research.

Where the researcher simply observes the group but does not join in with the activities.

The influence of the interviewer on the way a respondent replies.