Method

• What is the main focus of Sociology LT16?

  Factors affecting choice of research method(s)
• How can you recognize a factors question in sociology?

  It usually contains the word "factors" in the question.
• What should you avoid when answering a question on factors affecting choice of method?

  Evaluating different research methods in terms of strengths and weaknesses.
• What is required when debating influences in choosing a method?

  You must play one influence against the other and arrive at a reasoned conclusion.
• What are the three main types of factors affecting research method choice?

  Theoretical factors, practical factors, and ethical factors.
• What do some sociologists argue is the driving force behind the choice of research method?

  The theoretical perspective of the sociologist.
• What do positivists believe about sociology?

  Sociology can and should be studied scientifically.
• How do positivists view the social world?

  As an objective factual reality that is directly measurable.
• What type of research methods do positivists favor?

  Quantitative research methods.
• What is an example of a quantitative research method favored by positivists?

  Experiments.
• Why do positivists prefer large-scale surveys?

  They are representative and allow for generalizability.
• How did Durkheim use official statistics in his research?

  To develop a scientific theory of suicide.
• What do some sociologists emphasize instead of theoretical factors in choosing research methods?

  Practical factors.
• What is a challenge when studying sensitive topics or groups?

  It can be harder to study using certain methods.
• Why are qualitative methods more appropriate for sensitive topics?

  They allow for rapport and trust to be built with participants.
• What method did Oakley use to study women's experiences of childbirth?

  Informal interviews.
• What is an example of a topic that may require a large-scale survey?

  The extent of poverty in the UK.
• Why might a written questionnaire be inappropriate for studying illiterate groups?

  Because they cannot read or write the questions.
• What personal characteristics can affect the choice of research method?

  The personal skills and social characteristics of the researcher.
• How can social characteristics create access difficulties in research?

  They may hinder the researcher from blending in with the study group.
• What skills are necessary for participant observation?

  Good powers of observation and the ability to mix easily with others.
• What might a sociologist choose if they lack personal skills for qualitative methods?

  Secondary methods such as official statistics or personal documents.
• Why might time and finance limit research methods?

  Quantitative methods like mailed questionnaires are quicker and cheaper.
• How might a well-known professor differ from a PhD student in research funding?

  A professor is likely to have access to greater funds for large-scale surveys.
• How can the source of finance influence research methods?

  Funding from government organizations may constrain sociologists to use quantitative methods.
• What are some major ethical guidelines sociologists must follow?

  No deception, informed consent, and no harm to participants.
• Why might covert participant observation be considered unethical?

  It lacks informed consent and can lead to deception and exploitation.
• What is a significant ethical concern when conducting research with vulnerable groups?

  Ensuring their physical and psychological well-being.
• What should researchers do when possible regarding participants?

  Seek out participants and fully debrief them.
• What ethical issues were raised in Milgram's obedience study?

  It caused psychological harm and involved deception.
• What do interpretivists believe about studying sociology?

  Sociology cannot and should not be studied scientifically.
• How do interpretivists view the social world?

  As subjective meanings individuals give to events.
• What type of research methods do interpretivists favor?

  Open-ended qualitative research methods.
• What is an example of a qualitative research method favored by interpretivists?

  Informal interviews.
• Why do interpretivists value qualitative methods?

  They produce valid data and allow for deep insight through first-hand experience.
• How did Dobash & Dobash use qualitative methods in their research?

  To discover the patriarchal nature of domestic violence.
• What do positivists criticize about qualitative methods?

  They have problems with the Hawthorne effect and subjectivity.
• What are the key factors influencing the choice of research methods in sociology?

  • Theoretical factors: Perspectives on society and research.
  • Practical factors: Topic sensitivity, researcher skills, time, and cost.
  • Ethical factors: Guidelines ensuring participant safety and informed consent.
• What is the conclusion regarding the choice of research methods in sociology?

  • The topic/group studied is the most important factor.
  • Sociologists choose methods fit for their purpose.
  • Ethics are crucial and must be adhered to regardless of the method.
  • Triangulation of methods is often used for validity and reliability.