Quiz 1 ISS

aim of social science

To study human behavior, relationships, and societies systematically, looking for patterns, explanations, and predictions about interactions.

probability

Probability helps predict the likelihood of events or behaviors happening based on patterns and data.

epistemology

The study of knowledge and how we know what we know, including different ways of understanding the world.

methodology

The techniques and procedures used to gather and analyze data, including experiments, surveys, interviews, and observations.

What are the risks of relying on tradition and authority for knowledge?

While useful, they can sometimes lead to misinformation.

inaccurate observations

Misinterpreting or incorrectly remembering events.

Overgenralization

Applying findings from a small group to everyone.

selective observation

Focusing only on evidence that supports our beliefs.

independent variable.

The cause or factor that influences something, such as study time.

dependent variable.

The effect or outcome influenced by the independent variable, such as test scores.

What is the difference between idiographic and nomothetic explanations?

Idiographic refers to detailed explanations of a single event, while nomothetic refers to broad explanations that apply to many cases.

determinism

The idea that people’s actions are shaped by external forces like environment and culture.

What is qualitative research?

Descriptive research using words, observations, and meanings, such as interviews and case studies.

macrotheory?

A theory that looks at large-scale social structures, seeking to understand the big picture of societies and institutions.

microtheory?

A theory that focuses on small-scale interactions such as relationships and group behaviors.

feminist paradigm

It examines gender inequalities and how they shape society.

What are the elements of social theory?

Laws, theory, axioms, propositions, and hypothesis.

Differentiate between deductive and inductive reasoning.

Deductive reasoning starts with a theory to form a hypothesis, while inductive reasoning starts with data to identify patterns and develop a theory.

voluntary participation

Participants must agree to take part in research willingly.

protection from harm in research

Researchers must ensure that participants are not physically or emotionally harmed.

What distinguishes anonymity from confidentiality in research?

Anonymity means no one knows who participated, while confidentiality means the researcher knows but keeps identities private.

What issues does the AAPOR Code of Professional Ethics and Practice address?

It provides ethical guidelines for survey researchers regarding honesty and participant treatment.