Research Methods and Basic Sociological Concepts
Sociology uses systematic evidence, not opinion. The exam tests the research process, methods, sampling and core concepts such as status, role, group and institution.
Research process
A study begins with a problem and hypothesis, defines variables and operationalises concepts, selects a sample, collects data, analyses it and reports findings. Reliability means consistency; validity means measuring what is claimed. Primary data are collected first-hand; secondary data already exist.
Methods
- Survey uses questionnaires or interviews for large samples.
- Observation may be participant or non-participant.
- Case study examines one case in depth.
- Ethnography studies a community through long-term fieldwork. Sampling may be random, stratified or purposive. Ethics require consent, confidentiality and no harm.
Basic concepts
Society is a web of relationships; community is a shared locality or bond; association is deliberately formed for a purpose; institution is an established pattern of norms. Status is a position; role is its expected behaviour. Groups may be primary (intimate) or secondary (formal).
Worked example
Question: ‘Study school dropout in a district.’ Reasoning: define dropout operationally, identify variables such as income, gender and distance; choose a sample of schools; use attendance records plus interviews; state limits. This shows method, sample and validity rather than a vague essay.
Traps
- Confusing sample with population.
- Treating correlation as causation.
- Ignoring observer bias in participant observation.
- Using unreliable or unvalidated measures.
- Confusing status with role or community with association.