Sociological Investigation and Research Methods

This set of flashcards covers key concepts, definitions, and examples relevant to sociological investigation and research methods.

Sociological Investigation

Applying the sociological perspective by asking questions and being curious about society.

Science

A logical system based on systematic observation and empirical evidence.

Empirical Evidence

Information we can verify with our senses.

Scientific Sociology

Study of society through systematic observation and measurement of behavior.

Concept

A mental construct representing part of the world in simplified form.

Variable

A concept that changes from case to case.

Measurement

Procedure for determining the value of a variable.

Operationalize a Variable

Define exactly what is measured before assigning a value.

Reliability

Consistency in measurement.

Validity

Measuring exactly what is intended.

Cause and Effect

Change in one variable causes change in another.

Independent Variable

The variable that causes change.

Dependent Variable

The variable that changes as a result.

Correlation

Two or more variables change together.

Spurious Correlation

A false correlation caused by a third variable.

Control

Holding other variables constant to see true effects.

Objectivity

Personal neutrality in research.

Replication

Repeating research to verify results.

Hawthorne Effect

People change behavior when they know they’re studied.

Interpretive Sociology

Focuses on meanings people attach to life using qualitative data.

Critical Sociology

Focuses on inequality and promotes social change.

Research Ethics

Ensures respect and safety for participants.

Informed Consent

Participants understand purpose and risks of study.

Confidentiality

Protecting participant identities.

Anonymity

Data can’t be traced to participants.

Peer Review

Experts review research before publication.

Funding Disclosure

Researchers must reveal funding sources.

Research Method

A systematic plan for research.

Experiment

Tests cause and effect under control.

Survey

Subjects answer questions in interviews or questionnaires.

Population

The group being studied.

Sample

A small group representing the population.

Participant Observation

Researcher observes while joining participants.

Secondary Data Analysis

Using others’ collected data for research.

Inductive Reasoning

Specific observations → general theory.

Deductive Reasoning

General theory → specific hypothesis.

Technology and Research

Studies new effects and ethics of tech use.

Four Research Methods

Experiments, surveys, observation, secondary data.