Chapter 2 Flashcards
(32 cards)
What is the Scientific Method?
Systematic, organized series of steps that ensures maximum objectivity and consistency in researching a problem
Steps of the Scientific Method
Defining the problem, reviewing the literature, formulating the hypothesis, selecting the research design and collecting and analyzing data, developing the conclusion
Operational definition
Explanation of an abstract concept that is specific enough to allow researchers to assess the concept
Reviewing the literature
Refined problem under study
Hypothesis
Speculative statement between two or more factors known as variables
Variable
Measurable trait or characteristic subject to change under different conditions
Independent variable
Variable hypothesized to cause or influence another
Dependent variable
Action depends on influence of the independent variable
Causal logic
Involves relationships between a condition or variable and a particular consequence, with one event leading to the other
Correlation
Exists when change in one variable coincides with change in another, does not necessarily indicate causation
Research design
Detailed plan or method for obtaining data scientifically, surveys, observation, experiments, existing sources
Surveys
Study that provides sociologists with information about how people act or think
Interview
Researcher obtains information through face-to-face or telephone questioning
Questionnaire
Researcher uses printed or written form to obtain information from respondent
Quantitative research
Collects and reports data primarily in numerical form
Qualitative research
Relies on what is seen in field and naturalistic settings; often focuses on small groups and communities
Ethnography
Study of an entire social setting through extended systematic fieldwork
Observation
The basic technique of ethnography; direct participation in closely watching a group or organization
Participant observation
Method in which the sociologist joins a group for a period to get an accurate sense of how it operates
Experiment
Artificially crested situation that allows researcher to manipulate variables
Experimental group
Exposed to independent variable
Control group
Not exposed to independent variable
Hawthorne effect
Unintended influence of observers or experiments on subjects
Secondary analysis
Research techniques that make use of previously collected and publicly accessible information and data