Questionnaires & Formal Interviews

• What type of research method do questionnaires primarily represent?

  Quantitative
• What is a theoretical advantage of questionnaires according to positivists?

  They allow for large sample sizes and generalizability.
• What is a theoretical disadvantage of questionnaires according to interpretivists?

  They cannot check understanding of the questions.
• What is a mailed questionnaire?

  A type of written/self-completion questionnaire sent via post or email.
• Why do positivists favor mailed questionnaires for studying large geographical areas?

  They can easily reach a wide range of participants.
• How do mailed questionnaires increase validity according to positivists?

  They give participants time to think about their answers.
• Why might anonymity in questionnaires increase validity when studying sensitive topics?

  It encourages honest responses from participants.
• What is a limitation of mailed questionnaires regarding understanding?

  There is no one to explain questions or instructions.
• Why might low response rates in mailed questionnaires be problematic?

  They can lead to unrepresentative samples.
• What practical advantage do questionnaires have compared to interviews?

  They are quicker and cheaper to administer.
• What is a practical problem associated with questionnaires regarding completion?

  There is no guarantee that the intended respondent completed it.
• What do structured interviews involve?

  Asking pre-set standardized questions to a large number of people.
• Why do positivists favor structured interviews?

  They typically yield higher response rates than questionnaires.
• How do structured interviews help check understanding?

  The interviewer can clarify questions if necessary.
• What is a disadvantage of structured interviews regarding power dynamics?

  Power imbalances can lower the validity of responses.
• What is a potential bias in structured interviews?

  Interviewer bias can affect the objectivity of the study.
• What is a practical advantage of structured interviews compared to informal interviews?

  They are quicker and cheaper to carry out.
• What is a practical problem of structured interviews regarding time?

  They can be time-consuming, especially with young participants.
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of using questionnaires in sociological research?

  Strengths:

  • Cost-effective and quick to administer
  • Can reach large geographical areas
  • Anonymity increases validity

  
  

  Weaknesses:

  • Low response rates can affect representativeness
  • Cannot check understanding of questions
  • Potential for incomplete or spoiled responses
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of using structured interviews in sociological research?

  Strengths:

  • Higher response rates than questionnaires
  • Ability to clarify questions increases validity
  • Quick and inexpensive to conduct

  
  

  Weaknesses:

  • Power imbalances can affect responses
  • Interviewer bias may distort findings
  • Time-consuming with certain populations
• What are some recommended readings for further understanding of sociology research methods?

  • Webb R et al. (2015) AQA A level Sociology, Book One
  • Webb R & Trobe K. (2015) Succeed at A Level Sociology, Book One
  • Browne K. (2015) Sociology for AQA Vol 1
• What types of questions might be asked in sociology exams regarding research methods?

  • Evaluate strengths and limitations of methods
  • Outline reasons for using specific research techniques
  • Discuss ethical issues in research