Sociology research methods

Representative

Research can only be representative if it takes into account the wider population, this allows for accurate and inclusive generalisation.

Primary research

Research in which sociologists conduct themselves, such as interviews and questionnaires.

secondary research

Research which already exists which sociologists use for their own personal research, such as the census and government statistics.

Qualitative research

Data usually in word form that is descriptive and usually takes into account people’s feelings.

Quantitive

Data which is numerically and statistically based, this is usually mesurable

Reliable

When research can be repeated by different sociologists and the same answer will be concluded

Valid

Research which gives a true idea of what is happening, often concerning the feelings of the people being researched

Ethical

Ethical research takes moral issues such as harm and deception into consideration

Practical

This questions whether or not the research is possible, is there enough funding or do you have the correct skills needed

theoretical

This considers what approach is needed to conduct your research, are you worried about reliability or validity?