Chapter 2 Flashcards

(32 cards)

1
Q

What is the Scientific Method?

A

Systematic, organized series of steps that ensures maximum objectivity and consistency in researching a problem

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2
Q

Steps of the Scientific Method

A

Defining the problem, reviewing the literature, formulating the hypothesis, selecting the research design and collecting and analyzing data, developing the conclusion

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3
Q

Operational definition

A

Explanation of an abstract concept that is specific enough to allow researchers to assess the concept

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4
Q

Reviewing the literature

A

Refined problem under study

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5
Q

Hypothesis

A

Speculative statement between two or more factors known as variables

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6
Q

Variable

A

Measurable trait or characteristic subject to change under different conditions

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7
Q

Independent variable

A

Variable hypothesized to cause or influence another

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8
Q

Dependent variable

A

Action depends on influence of the independent variable

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9
Q

Causal logic

A

Involves relationships between a condition or variable and a particular consequence, with one event leading to the other

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10
Q

Correlation

A

Exists when change in one variable coincides with change in another, does not necessarily indicate causation

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11
Q

Research design

A

Detailed plan or method for obtaining data scientifically, surveys, observation, experiments, existing sources

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12
Q

Surveys

A

Study that provides sociologists with information about how people act or think

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13
Q

Interview

A

Researcher obtains information through face-to-face or telephone questioning

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14
Q

Questionnaire

A

Researcher uses printed or written form to obtain information from respondent

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15
Q

Quantitative research

A

Collects and reports data primarily in numerical form

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16
Q

Qualitative research

A

Relies on what is seen in field and naturalistic settings; often focuses on small groups and communities

17
Q

Ethnography

A

Study of an entire social setting through extended systematic fieldwork

18
Q

Observation

A

The basic technique of ethnography; direct participation in closely watching a group or organization

19
Q

Participant observation

A

Method in which the sociologist joins a group for a period to get an accurate sense of how it operates

20
Q

Experiment

A

Artificially crested situation that allows researcher to manipulate variables

21
Q

Experimental group

A

Exposed to independent variable

22
Q

Control group

A

Not exposed to independent variable

23
Q

Hawthorne effect

A

Unintended influence of observers or experiments on subjects

24
Q

Secondary analysis

A

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

25
Content analysis
Systematic coding and objective recording of data, guided by some rationale
26
Representative sample
Selection from a larger population that is statistically typical of that population
27
Random sample
When every member of a population has the same chance of being selected
28
Snowball samples (convenience samples)
Participants recruited through word of mouth or by posting notices on the internet
29
Validity
Degree to which the measure reflects the phenomenon being studied
30
Reliability
Extent to which the measure provides consistent results
31
Control variable
Factor held constant to test the impact of the independent variable
32
Ethics of research
Maintain objectivity and integrity in research, respect subjects' right to privacy and dignity, protect subjects from personal harm, preserve confidentiality, seek informed consent, acknowledge collaboration and assistance, disclose sources of financial support