26 Questions
What is the main purpose of using a mixed methods approach to research?
To combine quantitative and qualitative data to improve reliability and validity
What is the key difference between methodological pluralism and triangulation?
Methodological pluralism refers to the use of multiple methods, while triangulation is a specific technique for improving reliability and validity
Which of the following is NOT a potential benefit of using a mixed methods approach to research?
Increased sample size
Which of the following is a potential weakness of using questionnaires in research?
Low validity
What is the key advantage of approaching research methodology from a methodological perspective, rather than a 'design problem' perspective?
It allows the researcher to collect data with higher levels of reliability and validity
Which of the following is NOT a key benefit of using triangulation in research?
Increasing the sample size of the study
According to the passage, what is the primary research goal of the positivist approach?
To explain social phenomena
What is the positivist view on the role of the researcher in the research process?
The researcher should be objective and avoid influencing the data collection process.
What is the positivist view on the use of quantitative and qualitative research methods?
Positivists prefer quantitative methods because they allow for the collection of objective and reliable data.
According to the passage, what is the positivist view on the role of social structures in human behavior?
Social structures are real, objective forces that shape and constrain individual behavior.
What is the key difference between the positivist and interpretivist approaches to sociology?
Positivists believe social behavior can be studied using the same methods as natural sciences, while interpretivists do not.
According to the passage, what is the positivist view on the role of the researcher's values in the research process?
Positivists believe the researcher's values should not influence the research process.
What is the key reason positivists prefer quantitative research methods over qualitative methods?
Quantitative methods provide more opportunities for replicability and reliability.
How do positivists view the relationship between social structures and individual behavior?
Social structures are real, objective forces that constrain and shape individual behavior.
What is the primary goal of positivist research according to the passage?
To explain social phenomena
Which of the following is a key characteristic of the positivist approach according to the passage?
The belief that social behavior can be studied using scientific methods
What is a general weakness of using questionnaires in research?
Respondents may not be telling the truth
What is one way a researcher could offset the weakness of questionnaires mentioned in the previous question?
Use a different data collection method, such as participant observation
What is another way a researcher could offset the weakness of questionnaires mentioned earlier?
Compare the results from two different research methods used on the same people
What is an example of methodological triangulation mentioned in the text?
All of the above
What is an example of researcher triangulation mentioned in the text?
Using researchers from different ethnic, age, gender and class groups
What is an example of data triangulation mentioned in the text?
Both a and b
Which sociological research study mentioned in the text used a combination of participant observation, questionnaires and semi-structured interviews?
Barker's study on the Unification Church
Which sociological research study mentioned in the text used a combination of participant observation and personal documentation?
Hey's study on girls' friendships in London schools
What is one practical problem with using methodological triangulation in research?
It adds another layer of time, effort and expense to the research
What is another practical problem with using methodological triangulation mentioned in the text?
Collecting and comparing different types of data can be complicated
Explore the mixed methods approach to research, including concepts like triangulation and methodological pluralism. Learn why researchers often use methodological pluralism and the strengths and weaknesses of combining quantitative and qualitative data in research projects.
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