Chapter 2 - Applying Sociological Research Methods – SOC 1000

These 30 question-and-answer flashcards cover the key concepts, steps, methods, and ethical considerations presented in the lecture on sociological research methods.

What distinguishes “scientific” knowledge from “common-sense” knowledge in sociology?

Scientific knowledge relies on empirical, verifiable data-collection methods, whereas common-sense knowledge does not.

In sociological reasoning, what is a concept?

An abstract idea expressed as a word or phrase, such as “social class.”

In sociological reasoning, what is a variable?

A measurable category or property of people or things; for example, “single” is a category of the variable “marital status.”

Which kind of reasoning moves from theories → hypotheses → data gathering → findings?

Deductive reasoning.

Which kind of reasoning moves from observations → patterns → tentative hypotheses → theory?

Inductive reasoning.

List the five main goals of sociological research discussed in the lecture.

Explore, describe, explain, evaluate, and empower.

What is the first step in the sociological research process?

Formulating a clear research question.

Why is a literature review conducted?

To learn what is already known about a topic, avoid duplication, and refine the research focus.

Give one sociological database named in the lecture for literature searches.

Examples include SocINDEX or Sociological Abstracts.

What does it mean to operationalize a variable?

To define precisely how a concept will be measured or observed in a study.

Define reliability in measurement.

The consistency of a measurement—producing the same results under the same conditions.

Define validity in measurement.

The degree to which a measurement actually measures what it is intended to measure.

According to the target analogy, what two qualities should a good measurement technique possess?

It should be both valid and reliable.

What is the purpose of a research design?

To lay out the specific steps for collecting and analyzing data that will answer the research question.

Name one software package mentioned for quantitative data analysis.

SPSS.

Name one software package mentioned for qualitative data analysis.

NVivo.

Why must researchers report their findings publicly?

To subject the work to peer review and contribute to the broader body of knowledge.

What are the three core principles of the Tri-Council Policy Statement (TCPS2)?

Respect for persons, concern for welfare, and justice.

How do qualitative and quantitative methods differ?

Qualitative methods describe phenomena in words; quantitative methods count or statistically test phenomena using numbers.

In an experiment, what is the independent variable?

The presumed cause that the researcher manipulates.

In an experiment, what is the dependent variable?

The outcome or effect measured by the researcher.

Why is random assignment important in experiments?

It helps ensure that differences between groups are due to the independent variable, strengthening causal claims.

What characterizes a survey in sociological research?

Use of questionnaires to collect data from a representative sample about attitudes or behaviors.

Name two types of interviews highlighted in the lecture.

Standardized interviews and unstandardized interviews (focus groups were also noted).

What is secondary data analysis?

Analyzing data that were originally collected by others for a different purpose.

Give two possible sources for secondary data analysis.

Examples include Statistics Canada datasets, diaries, websites, movies, or graffiti.

What is the main aim of ethnography?

To describe everyday behavior in natural settings and gain deep insight into a subculture or group.

How does participant observation differ from systematic observation?

Participant observation involves the researcher taking part in the group’s activities; systematic observation does not involve participation.

What is meant by mixed or multiple-methods research?

A design that combines qualitative and quantitative techniques, such as single-case or convergent designs.

In the COVID-19 caregiver survey example, what percentage of caregivers reported receiving less formal support during the pandemic?

65%.