Research methods

• What are the main purposes of sociological research?

  Understand purposes, analyze data, evaluate research
• Why do sociologists study everyday life instead of assuming it is predictable?

  To uncover how the world really works
• How might sociologists use systematic research methods?

  To produce credible knowledge about society
• What are the differences between subjective and objective knowledge in sociology?

  • Subjective knowledge: based on individual opinions
  • Objective knowledge: based on characteristics of the object
  • Sociologists aim for objectivity to describe social realities
• What is the effect of monitoring on Big Brother participants' behavior?

  It may alter their natural behavior
• What is the definition of subjective knowledge?

  Knowledge based on individual opinions
• What is the definition of objective knowledge?

  Knowledge independent of personal opinions
• Why do sociologists strive for objectivity in their research?

  To collect evidence about social realities
• How do sociologists evaluate the credibility of their theories?

  Through further research and evidence
• What are the three main tasks of sociological research?

  Gather data, establish correlations, suggest theories
• What is quantitative data?

  Statistical information like numbers and charts
• What is qualitative data?

  Data based on observations and narratives
• Who conducts quantitative research in the UK?

  Office for National Statistics (ONS)
• What is a potential issue with accepting data at face value?

  Different interpretations can lead to varied conclusions
• What did Émile Durkheim's research on suicide illustrate about data interpretation?

  Different sociologists can interpret the same data differently
• What is the significance of studying how coroners classify deaths?

  It reveals complexities in determining suicide cases
• What are primary data?

  Data produced directly by researchers
• What are secondary data?

  Data collected by others, not researchers
• What is the difference between quantitative and qualitative data?

  Quantitative data is numerical; qualitative is descriptive
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of primary and secondary data?

  Strengths of primary data:

  • Tailored to specific research needs
  • More control over data collection

  
  

  Weaknesses of primary data:

  • Time-consuming and expensive
  • Ethical and practical challenges

  
  

  Strengths of secondary data:

  • Cost-effective and time-saving
  • Already exists for analysis

  
  

  Weaknesses of secondary data:

  • May not fit specific research needs
  • Limited control over data quality
• What is reliability in sociological research?

  The ability to produce consistent results when repeated
• How can researchers ensure the reliability of their findings?

  By using methods that can be easily replicated
• What is validity in sociological research?

  The extent to which research accurately reflects reality
• How do validity and reliability differ in sociological research?

  Validity measures truth; reliability measures consistency
• What is the role of sociological research in developing theories?

  To support, contradict, or develop sociological theories
• What is a theory in sociology?

  A general explanation of social events
• How can correlations in research lead to different theories?

  Correlations can suggest various causal relationships
• What is the significance of Pudney's research on young offenders?

  It explores the timing of drug use and crime
• What is the main challenge in establishing causal relationships in sociology?

  Identifying true causes among correlated events
• How do sociologists approach the issue of common sense in research?

  They challenge it with evidence-based research
• What are the limitations of common sense compared to sociological research?

  Common sense is subjective and often inaccurate
• Why is it important for sociologists to question their assumptions?

  To gain a deeper understanding of social worlds
• What is the relationship between sociological research and common sense?

  Sociological research is evidence-based, common sense is not
• How do sociologists ensure their research is credible?

  By using systematic methods and evidence
• What role does theorizing play in sociological research?

  It helps explain relationships between social patterns
• What is the importance of evaluating research findings?

  To determine their credibility and accuracy
• What is the significance of the Office for National Statistics (ONS)?

  It collects quantitative data in the UK
• How can sociologists use observational studies effectively?

  By ensuring accurate and unbiased observations
• What challenges do sociologists face when using qualitative data?

  It can be subjective and difficult to analyze
• Why is it important for sociologists to gather diverse data?

  To gain a comprehensive understanding of social issues