The Research Method of Sociology

The Research Method, Unit 2, Sociology

Step 1

Define the problem: what is the question I want to answer?

Operational Definition

Definition of an abstract concept in terms of observable features used for the purpose of the study

Step 2

Review the literature - what has been done in this area (that you are studying).

Step 3

Develop Hypotheses or Guided Research Questions

Hypothesis

Testable statement about the relationship between variables.

Independent Variable

The variable that you believe causes changes in other variables. Cause variable.

Dependent Variable

Influenced by the independent variable. Effect variable.

Step 4

Determine the research design (or method) you want to use and collect data.

Survey

A set of questions, generally with closed- or fixed-response answers.

Advantages: quick and efficient. Can reach large numbers

Disadvantages: Not much room for depth. Forces people to choose narrow answers

Interview

Groups of open ended questions that involve greater interaction between the researcher and the subject.

Advantages: More depth and allows for more complex answers.

Disadvantages: Costly and more time consuming

Observation

Participant or nonparticipant.

Advantages: Real life setting, researcher is actively involved.

Disadvantages: Time consuming and hard to double check.

Experiment

Researcher controls the variables and the environment.

Advantages: Controlled setting and helps show cause

Disadvantages: Costly, can present ethical issues

Secondary Analysis

Looking at data that is already collected.

Advantages: Don’t have to go into the field and usually cheaper

Disadvantages: Don’t know the motives of creators or interpretations of consumers.

Step 5

Analyze the data and draw conclusions: what have you found?

Step 6

Write up findings: who’s my audience? what did I find that is important?