sociology research methods

Primary Data

Data collected firsthand by the researcher for a specific research purpose.

Secondary Data

Data collected by someone else for a different purpose but used by the researcher for their study.

Random Sampling

A sampling method where participants are chosen from a population randomly, ensuring each member has an equal chance of selection.

Stratified Sampling

Dividing a population into similar subgroups and then selecting samples from each subgroup to ensure representation.

Snowball Sampling

A non-probability sampling method where existing participants recruit new participants.

Systematic Sampling

Selecting members of a population at regular intervals to form a sample.

Quota Sampling

Non-random selection of a predetermined number of units from different subgroups of a population.

Operationalizing Concepts

Turning abstract ideas into measurable variables for research purposes.

Ethical Issues

Concerns related to the treatment of participants and the handling of data in research.

Theoretical Issues

Concerns related to the validity, reliability, and representativeness of research findings.

Quantitative Methods

Research methods that focus on numerical data and statistical analysis.

Qualitative Methods

Research methods that focus on non-numerical data and in-depth understanding.

Lab Experiments

Research conducted in controlled environments to study cause and effect relationships.

Field Experiments

Research conducted in real-life settings to observe behaviors in natural conditions.

Questionnaires

Research instruments consisting of a set of questions to gather data from participants.

Interviews

Conversational methods used to gather data from participants.

Observations

Research method involving the systematic observation of behaviors in various settings.

Secondary Sources

Data collected by others and used by researchers for analysis.

Practical Issues

Real-world constraints that can impact the research process.

Sampling Methods

Techniques used to select participants from a population for a research study.