Sociology-Module 1–Topic 7: Applying Research Methods to a Sociological Issue

What is meant by applying research methods to a sociological issue?

Definition: Using sociological research methods to investigate and understand real social problems or issues.

• Example: Studying the impact of social media on youth identity in Trinidad and Tobago.

What is the quantitative approach in studying social media and youth identity?

Method: Survey with fixed-choice questions on social media usage and self-esteem scores.

• Advantages:
  • Efficient for large samples
  • Produces quantifiable results

• Disadvantages:
  • Lacks depth
  • May miss nuances of identity formation

What is the qualitative approach in studying social media and youth identity?

Method: In-depth interviews and participant observation in online forums.

• Advantages:
  • Rich understanding of subjective experiences
  • Explores meanings and identity formation

• Disadvantages:
  • Time-consuming
  • Findings not easily generalizable

What is triangulation in sociological research?

Definition: Using multiple research methods to study the same issue in order to improve validity and reliability.

How can triangulation be used to study social media and youth identity?

Method: Combine survey data with interviews to gain both statistical and in-depth information.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of triangulation?

• Advantages:
  • Strengthens validity
  • Improves reliability
  • Provides a more complete understanding

• Disadvantages:
  • Time-consuming
  • Requires more resources