Questions and Answers
What is a systematic, organized series of steps that ensures maximum objectivity and consistency in researching a problem?
Scientific method
The five steps in the scientific method are: 1. Defining the problem, 2. Reviewing the literature, 3. Formulating the hypothesis, 4. Selecting the research design, and 5. _____
Developing the conclusion
What is an explanation of an abstract concept that is specific enough to allow a researcher to assess the concept?
Operational definition
What is a speculative statement about the relationship between two or more factors known as variables?
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What is defined as a measurable trait or characteristic that is subject to change under different conditions?
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What is the variable hypothesized to cause or influence another?
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What depends on the action of the independent variable?
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What involves the relationship between a condition or variable and a particular consequence?
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What exists when a change in one variable coincides with a change in the other?
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What is a selection from a larger population that is statistically representative of that population?
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In a random sample, what chance does every member of the population have of being selected?
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What refers to the degree to which a measure or scale truly reflects the phenomenon under study?
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What refers to the extent to which a measure produces consistent results?
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What is a factor held constant to test the relative impact of the independent variable?
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What is a detailed plan or method for obtaining data scientifically?
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What is a study, generally in the form of an interview or questionnaire, that provides researchers with information about how people think and act?
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What is the study of an entire social setting through extended systematic fieldwork?
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What is the basic technique of ethnography involving direct participation and closely watching a group or organization?
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What is an artificially created situation that allows the researcher to manipulate variables?
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In an experiment, what is the experimental group exposed to?
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In an experiment, which group is not exposed to the independent variable?
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What refers to the unintended influence of observers or experiments on subjects of research?
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What is the systematic coding and objective recording of data, guided by some rationale?
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Study Notes
Scientific Method
- A systematic approach to researching problems ensures objectivity and consistency.
- Steps include defining the problem, reviewing literature, formulating hypotheses, selecting research design, collecting and analyzing data, and drawing conclusions.
Key Concepts
- Operational Definition: Defines an abstract concept specifically enough for assessment.
- Hypothesis: A speculative statement about the relationship between two or more variables.
- Variables: Measurable traits or characteristics that vary under different conditions.
Types of Variables
- Independent Variable: Hypothesized to cause or influence another variable.
- Dependent Variable: Depends on the actions of the independent variable.
Research Logic
- Causal Logic: Explores the relationship between a condition and its consequence, indicating how one event leads to another.
- Correlation: An observed relationship where a change in one variable aligns with a change in another.
Sampling Methods
- Sample: A subset from a larger population that represents that population statistically.
- Random Sample: Each member of the population has an equal chance of selection.
Measurement Validity
- Validity: Degree to which a measure accurately reflects the phenomenon being studied.
- Reliability: Extent to which a measure yields consistent results.
Research Controls
- Control Variable: A factor kept constant to test the independent variable's impact.
Research Design
- Research Design: A detailed plan for scientifically obtaining data.
- Survey: A method involving interviews or questionnaires to gather information on people's thoughts and actions.
- Ethnography: In-depth study of an entire social setting through systematic fieldwork.
- Observation: Direct participation and close monitoring of a group as a primary ethnographic technique.
- Experiment: An artificially created situation allowing researchers to manipulate variables.
Experimental Groups
- Experimental Group: Exposed to the independent variable during an experiment.
- Control Group: Not exposed to the independent variable to provide a comparison.
Research Effects
- Hawthorne Effect: Unintended influence of observers on the subjects being researched.
- Content Analysis: Systematic coding and objective recording of data based on specific rationale.
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Description
Test your knowledge of the scientific method as it relates to sociology. This quiz will cover the key steps involved in conducting research and the importance of objectivity. Get familiar with the definitions and processes that shape sociological inquiry.
