Reasons for choice of method and data

• What are the factors influencing the choice of research method and topic?

  Practical, ethical, and theoretical factors
• What is the purpose of understanding factors influencing research methods?

  To apply these factors to novel research situations
• What study did Mac an Ghaill conduct?

  Young, Gifted and Black
• What does the acronym PET stand for in research?

  Practical, ethical, theoretical factors
• What are the main practical factors influencing research methods?

  • Time
  • Money
  • Researcher characteristics
• What ethical issues must researchers consider?

  • Informed consent
  • Confidentiality and privacy
  • Harm to participants
  • Vulnerable groups
  • Covert research
• Who conducted a study on informed consent with the Moonies?

  Eileen Barker
• How did James Patrick ensure confidentiality in his study?

  He waited 10 years to publish findings
• What method did Dobash and Dobash use in their study?

  Unstructured interviews
• Why do sociologists use unstructured interviews with children?

  To make them feel safe and comfortable
• What was the ethical issue in Laud Humphreys' study?

  Covert research without participant identification
• What does validity refer to in research?

  Truth and accurate reflection of reality
• What does reliability refer to in research?

  Consistency of measurement across studies
• What is the difference between validity and reliability?

  Validity is about truth; reliability is consistency
• How might practical factors influence a sociologist's research method?

  By determining available time and resources
• Why do positivists and interpretivists prefer different types of data?

  Due to their differing research philosophies
• What factors influence a sociologist's choice of research topic?

  • Sociologist's perspective
  • Values of society
  • Funding bodies
  • Practical factors
• What is one practical factor affecting research methods?

  Personal skills of the researcher
• Why is interpersonal skill important for participant observation?

  To develop rapport and trust with subjects
• How does Mac an Ghaill's choice of method relate to his research topic?

  He used participant observation for cultural insights
• What should a sociologist consider when studying sensitive topics?

  Ethical implications and participant comfort
• What is the significance of the research ethics committee's role?

  To ensure ethical standards are maintained
• Did Anne Other act unethically in her research? Why?

  Yes, she ignored informed consent requirements
• What are the implications of ignoring consent in research?

  It can lead to ethical violations and harm
• What is the focus of the study 'Young, Gifted and Black'?

  Cultural differences among pupils
• How can funding bodies influence research topics?

  By prioritizing certain areas of study
• What should researchers do when selecting a research method?

  Consider practical, ethical, and theoretical factors
• How do personal characteristics of researchers affect their methods?

  They determine the suitability of certain methods
• What is the main goal of sociological research?

  To investigate sociological issues
• What is the importance of participant observation in sociological research?

  It provides in-depth understanding of subjects
• How can theoretical perspectives influence research topics?

  They shape the focus and approach of research
• What should a sociologist do when faced with ethical dilemmas?

  Weigh the ethical implications against research goals
• What is the significance of the term 'covert research'?

  Research conducted without participant knowledge
• Why is it important to evaluate the claim about practical factors in research?

  To understand their impact on research choices
• How does the choice of research method affect the validity of findings?

  Different methods yield varying levels of insight
• What is a key consideration when studying vulnerable groups?

  Ensuring their safety and comfort during research
• What is the role of funding bodies in sociological research?

  To provide financial support for studies
• How can societal values influence research topics?

  They shape what is considered important to study
• What is the relationship between a sociologist's perspective and their research topic?

  A sociologist's perspective guides their research focus
• How should a sociologist approach a sensitive research topic?

  With careful consideration of ethical implications