Research Methods Key Terms

Validity

The degree to which a study accurately measures what it intends to measure, ensuring that the results reflect the true phenomena under investigation.

Relibability

The consistency of a research study's results over time or across different observers, indicating that the measurement produces stable and repeatable outcomes.

Representativeness

The extent to which a sample reflects the characteristics of the population from which it is drawn, ensuring generalisability of the study's findings.

Generalisability

Where it is possible to apply the findings of sociological research to the rest of the population

Objectivity

The practice of conducting research without allowing personal biases or emotions to influence the results, ensuring that findings are based solely on observable phenomena.

Pilot Study

A preliminary study conducted to test the feasibility, time, cost, and adverse events involved in a research project. It serves to refine research methods before the full-scale study.

Operationalised

The process of defining variables in measurable terms, allowing for empirical testing and analysis in research.

Sampling Free

The process of selecting a representative group from a larger population to participate in a research study, allowing for generalisation of findings.

Target Population

A specific group of individuals that researchers aim to study and draw conclusions about, representing the larger population.

Sampling Unit

The individual element or group from which data is collected in a research study, often representing a subset of the target population.

Sample Attrition

The loss of participants from a study over time, which can lead to a non-representative sample and potentially bias results.

Response Rate

The percentage of participants who completed the survey or study out of the total number invited to participate, indicating the effectiveness of data collection.

Interpretivism

A research paradigm that emphasises understanding the subjective meanings and experiences of individuals, often through qualitative methods, contrasting with positivism.

Positivsm

A research philosophy that advocates for the use of objective, quantitative methods to study observable phenomena, emphasising scientific rigour and empirical evidence.

Hypothesis

A testable statement or prediction about the relationship between two or more variables, guiding research inquiries and experiments.

Variables

Elements of research that can change or vary, often categorised as independent or dependent.

Hawthorne Effect

The alteration of behaviour by study participants due to their awareness of being observed, impacting the validity of research results.

Coding

A systematic process of categorising and organising qualitative data to identify patterns, themes, or insights during analysis.

Interviewer Bias

The tendency for researchers to influence responses during interviews based on their expectations or beliefs, leading to skewed results.

Ethnography

A qualitative research method involving immersive observation and participation in the daily life of a study group to gain a deep understanding of their culture, behaviors, and experiences.

Interviewer Schedule

A structured set of questions used by an interviewer to guide a research interview and ensure consistency across different interviews.

Comparative Studies

Studies which make comparisons between different societies and different groups within the dame society

Triangulation

A method in research that involves using multiple sources, methods, or perspectives to validate findings and enhance credibility.

Methodological Pluralism

The use of multiple research methods to address a single research question or topic, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the subject.

Social Facts

Things that exist externally to the individual but can influence their behaviour

Verstehen

Refers to the understanding Of the meaning of action from the actor's point of view.

Victim Survey

A research method used to gather information about the experiences of victims of crime through self-reported data.

Covert Role in research

Refers to a method of observing subjects in a research study without their knowledge, often to avoid influencing their behaviour.

Overt Role in research

Refers to a method where the researcher openly identifies themselves and their purpose when observing participants, ensuring transparency in the study.

Imposition Problem

A potential bias in research where the researcher unintentionally affects the responses or behaviours of participants due to their presence or influence.

Leading Question

A type of question that suggests a particular answer or contains information that could bias the respondent's reply, often leading to skewed results in research.