Sociology Ch 2

Deductive or Inductive

The sociological research process proceeds in a systematic fashion by either the .. or the .. models.

Correlation

A ... between variable exists when a change in one or more variables is associated with a change in another variable. Can take several forms: positive, perfect positive, negative, perfect negative, and zero.

Participant Observation

A common form of field research. The researcher systematically observes people while joining with them in their activities.

Random Sampling

A process by which each member of the population has the same chance of being selected for participation in the study. This helps limit bias when testing hypothesis, which increases the validity and reliability of the results.

Hypothesis

A statement of the expected relationship between two or more concepts or variables. In order to test this theory, sociologists must try to control all potential causes.

Representative Sample

A subgroup of the population that is representative of the whole on the aggregate characteristics that are important for the study. (Studying internet use would have a group of younger people)

Independent Variable

A variable that causes or produces change in the value of another variable. Also called the explanatory variable or predictor variable.

Dependent Variable

A variable whose value is believed to be caused by another variable. Also called the variable of interest or the outcome measure.

Experiments

Carefully designed and controlled attempts, usually in a laboratory, to determine the effect of specific variables on a particular dependent variable or upon the behavior and attitudes of the experiment's subjects. Can indicate cause and effect relationships.

Correlation of Zero

Exists between two variables if an increase in one variable is accompanied in half the cases by an increase in the second variable and in half the cases by a decrease on the second variable. Such a relationship is also referred to as an independent relationship between variables.

Negative Correlation

Exists between two variables when, in the majority of cases, the value of one variable decreases as the value of the second variable increases.

Positive Correlation

Exists between two variables when, in the majority of cases, they both change together in the same direction.

Qualitative Research

Field research is a form of ... that emphasizes uncovering the subjective meanings that guide social interaction as well as the types, forms, and structuring of social interaction itself.

Secondary Analysis of Existing Data

Involves researchers in the use of data and information that was initially collected by previous researchers. Reduces the time spent in data collection, but can pose validity problems if the existing data does not precisely measure the variables or topic the researcher is analyzing.

Sociological Research

Involves the systematic collection and analysis of information for the purpose of testing or generating sociological theories.

Reliability

Means consistency in the measurement of a variable over time. This is a part of operationalizing a variable.

Surveys

Questionnaires or interviews in which people are asked to respond to a series of statements. Very useful in uncovering things that cannot be observed, such as attitudes or beliefs, and are among the most common of sociological research methods. Information obtained can be statistically analyzed.

Case Studies

Refers to accounts of people in particular settings.

Quantitative and Qualitative Research

Secondary analysis of existing data can involve either or both ...

Population

Sociological research targets a specific ... -the group of people to whom the results apply and about which the investigator seeks to draw conclusions.

Deductive Model Step 1

Step __ :select a topic of interest, investigate previous research on the topic, and then frame the research questions or hypotheses one wishes to investigate.

Inductive Model Step 2

Step __: analyze the data and identify important patterns.

Deductive Model Step 3

Step __: collect information through the research method, record, and analyze it.

Deductive Model Step 4

Step __: draw conclusions from the analysis of information and share results with others.

Deductive Model Step 2

Step __: identify the appropriate research method to use, develop items necessary to implement the research method (such as survey questionnaire), and determining the appropriate group or setting to apply the method to.

Inductive Model Step 3

Step __: review the existing literature on the subject and develop of a hypotheses that explains the patterns observed.

Inductive Model Step 1

Step __: select a topic and collect data.

Quantitative Research

Surveys and experiments are forms of ... that emphasize the statistical analysis of numerical data.

Surveys, Experiments, Field Research, and Secondary Analysis of Existing Data

The four main methods in which sociological research is conducted.

Sample

The subgroup of the population from which the researcher will collect data. Researchers must take care to ensure that the subgroup accurately reflects the composition of the population, including the distribution of important attributes and characteristics within the population.

Validity

The variable measures precisely and exactly what one intends to measure. This is part of operationalizing a variable.

Field Research

This is the main qualitative research method and involves the study of social life in its natural setting. Yields observations that are analyzed qualitatively. Helps us to understand the social behavior of a group of people from the insider's point of view.

Operationalize

This must be done before research can begin. To ... a variable means to specify how the variable is to be measured. Must be concerned with validity and reliability.

Cause and Effect

This relationship is a specific form of correlation between variables in which one variable brings about the change in the other variable(s). The independent variable is the factor that effects a change in the dependent variable.

Deductive Model

This research model begins with a general theory and then collects data to test the theory.

Inductive Model

This research model begins with observations upon which a theoretical account is made that explains the observations and their meanings.