Research Design

Question 1

Factors Affecting Choice of Topic: Sociologist’s perspective

Answer 1

Sociologist’s perspective – Their theoretical view shapes the topic (e.g., Marxists → class inequalities).

Question 2

Factors Affecting Choice of Topic: Society’s values

Answer 2

Society’s values – Research reflects social priorities (e.g., rise of feminism in 1960s → gender studies).

Question 3

Factors Affecting Choice of Topic: Practical factors

Answer 3

Practical factors – Accessibility can limit topics (e.g., global corporations are hard to study).

Question 4

Factors Affecting Choice of Topic: Funding bodies

Answer 4

Funding bodies – Research may focus on areas the funders support (e.g., ESRC).

Question 5

Research Process: 1.Formulation of a hypothesis

Answer 5

Formulation of a hypothesis
-Testable statement that can be proved or disproved.
-Example: “Middle-class students outperform working-class students.”
-Favoured by positivists.

Question 6

Research Process:
2.Formulation of an aim

Answer 6

Formulation of an aim:
-Broader than a hypothesis; outlines what the researcher wants to study.
-Favoured by interpretivists.

Question 7

Research Process:
3.Choice of method

Answer 7

Choice of method
-Decide how to collect data based on aims/hypothesis.

Question 8

Research Process:
4. Operationalising concepts

Answer 8

Operationalising concepts
-Define how key concepts will be measured.
-Example: How to measure social class.

Question 9

Research Process:
5.Pilot study

Answer 9

Pilot study
-Trial run with a small sample to test the study.

Question 10

Research Process:
6.Data collection

Answer 10

Data collection
-Conduct full research using chosen method.

Question 11

Research Process:
7.Publish findings

Answer 11

Publish findings
-Analyse and interpret data.
-Produce a report detailing methods and conclusions.