Research methodsLesson 2 of 3 in the course Sociological Research

Sociological Research Design, Data, and Methods

5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 5 match pairs · 5 fill-in sentences · English

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Summary

Sociologists use research methods to investigate patterns, problems, and questions about social life. This lesson introduces research design and explains how researchers choose methods that fit their questions, settings, and responsibilities to participants.

A research design is the plan for carrying out a study. It connects the research question to the evidence needed to answer it, including the methods used to collect or obtain data. Like an architect’s blueprint, it helps researchers decide what to do before they begin gathering information.

All flashcards

What is a research design?
It is the plan for conducting a study, connecting the research question to appropriate evidence, data collection methods, and practical and ethical decisions.
How do primary and secondary data differ?
Primary data are collected firsthand for the current study. Secondary data are existing information created or collected previously by other researchers or organizations.
What are examples of sociological research methods?
Surveys, field research, experiments, case studies, participant observation, ethnography, and secondary data analysis are common methods.
Why is method choice important?
Methods differ in what they can reveal, how they work in particular settings, and what limitations or risks they involve. The method should fit the research question and participants.
What is the difference between overt and covert research?
In overt research, the researcher’s role is openly identified. In covert research, the role or purpose is concealed, which may affect access and natural behavior and raises ethical concerns.

Quiz questions

  1. What is a research design?Answer: A plan linking a research question to methods and evidence.
  2. Which source provides primary data for a current study?Answer: Interviews conducted by the researcher for that study.
  3. Why might sociologists combine research methods?Answer: Different methods can provide complementary evidence about a topic.
  4. What distinguishes participant observation from other forms of field research?Answer: The researcher joins a group’s routine activities while observing it.
  5. What should inform a decision to conduct research overtly or covertly?Answer: Feasibility, participant protection, ethical concerns, and possible effects on behavior.

Based on Introduction to Sociology 3e by Tonja R. Conerly, Kathleen Holmes, Asha Lal Tamang (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.

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