Sociological Research Methods

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to scientific methods and research designs in sociology.

Scientific Method

A systematic, organized series of steps that ensures maximum objectivity and consistency in researching a problem.

Operational Definition

An explanation of an abstract concept that is specific enough to allow a researcher to assess the concept.

Reviewing the Literature

Examining relevant scholarly studies and information to refine the problem under study, clarify techniques, and reduce mistakes.

Hypothesis

A speculative statement about the relationship between two or more factors known as variables.

Variable

A measurable trait or characteristic that is subject to change under different conditions.

Independent Variable

The variable hypothesized to cause or influence another.

Dependent Variable

The variable whose action depends on the influence of the independent variable.

Causal Logic

The relationship between a condition or variable and a particular consequence, with one leading to the other (x leads to y).

Correlation

A change in one variable coincides with a change in the other, indicating causality MAY be present, but not necessarily causation.

Sample

A selection from a larger population that is statistically representative of that population.

Random Sample

Every member of an entire population being studied has the same chance of being selected.

Validity

The degree to which a measure or scale truly reflects the phenomenon under study.

Reliability

The extent to which a measure produces consistent results.

Control Variable

A factor that is held constant to test the relative impact of an independent variable.

Research Design

A detailed plan or method for obtaining data scientifically.

Survey

A study, generally in the form of an interview or questionnaire, that provides researchers with information about how people think and act.

Interview

A researcher obtains information through face-to-face, phone, or online questioning.

Questionnaire

The researcher uses a printed or written form to obtain information from a respondent.

Quantitative Research

Collects and reports data primarily in numeric form.

Qualitative Research

Relies on what is seen in field and naturalistic settings, and often focuses on small groups and communities rather than on large groups or whole nations.

Ethnography

The study of an entire social setting through extended systematic fieldwork.

Observation

Direct participation in closely watching a group or organization; the basic technique of ethnography.

Participant Observation

The sociologist actually joins a group for a period to get an accurate sense of how it operates.

Visual Sociology

The use of photographs, film, and video to study society.

Experiment

An artificially created situation that allows a researcher to manipulate variables.

Experimental Group

Exposed to the independent variable.

Control Group

Not exposed to the independent variable.

Hawthorne Effect

The unintended influence that observers of experiments can have on their subjects.

Secondary Analysis

Research techniques that make use of previously collected and publicly accessible information and data.

Content Analysis

Systematic coding and objective recording of data, guided by some rationale.

Code of Ethics

Specific standards in conducting research that sociologists must abide by.