Research Methods Flashcards
(24 cards)
True or False: Qualitative research methods focus on numerical data.
False
Fill in the blank: __________ is a method that involves direct observation of social behavior.
Participant observation
What is a key characteristic of quantitative research?
It involves the collection and analysis of numerical data.
Which method is primarily used for statistical analysis?
Surveys
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a qualitative research method? A) Survey B) Experiment C) Interview D) Observation
C) Interview
What type of data does secondary research involve?
Data that has already been collected by others.
True or False: Experiments are often used to establish cause-and-effect relationships.
True
What is the main advantage of using surveys in sociological research?
They can gather data from a large number of respondents quickly.
Fill in the blank: __________ involves studying a small, specific group in detail.
Case study
What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative research?
Qualitative research focuses on understanding meanings and experiences, while quantitative research focuses on numerical data.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following methods is least likely to involve direct interaction with participants? A) Interview B) Survey C) Participant observation D) Focus group
B) Survey
What is a disadvantage of using interviews as a research method?
They can be time-consuming and may introduce interviewer bias.
True or False: Focus groups are a form of qualitative research.
True
What is the purpose of using a control group in an experiment?
To compare results with a group that does not receive the treatment.
Fill in the blank: __________ is a method where researchers immerse themselves in a community to understand their culture.
Ethnography
What is the main goal of longitudinal studies?
To observe changes over time.
Multiple Choice: Which type of sampling involves selecting participants based on specific characteristics? A) Random sampling B) Stratified sampling C) Systematic sampling D) Snowball sampling
B) Stratified sampling
What is the purpose of pilot studies?
To test the feasibility and refine research methods before the main study.
True or False: Content analysis is a qualitative method.
False
What is a potential ethical issue in sociological research?
Informed consent and maintaining participant confidentiality.
Fill in the blank: __________ sampling involves selecting participants who are easily accessible.
Convenience
What is the role of a hypothesis in research?
It is a testable statement predicting the relationship between variables.
Multiple Choice: Which method is best for exploring people’s attitudes and opinions? A) Surveys B) Experiments C) Observations D) Case studies
A) Surveys
What does the term ‘operationalization’ refer to in research?
The process of defining how variables will be measured.
