Influences on the choice of research topic and method- PET

Question 1

Practical issues

Answer 1

Like funding, ease of access to the place or group being studied, time available, and whether the researcher has the personal skills and characteristics to carry out the research.

Question 2

Ethical issues

Answer 2

Like whether the research will have any harmful consequences, whether participants have given their consent, and whether research is reported accurately and honestly.

Question 3

Theoretical issues

Answer 3

What sociological perspective is preferred e.g. Marxist/positivist.

Question 4

Ethics

Answer 4

Concerns principles or ideas about what is morally right or wrong.

Question 5

Informed consent

Answer 5

Where those taking part in a sociological study have agreed to do so, and have given this consent based on a full appreciation and understanding of the nature, aims and purposes of the study, any implications or risk taking part might have, and the uses of any findings of the research.