Download Chapter 2 – Sociological Research The scientific method is a

Chapter 2 – Sociological Research
The scientific method is a systematic, organized series of steps that ensures maximum objectivity and consistency in
researching a problem. It plays a major role in the workings of our society. Being aware of such may protect us from
supposed claims for advertisers, for example. The scientific method requires precise preparations in developing useful
research.
Five Basic Steps
Defining the Problem – the question of whether it pays to get higher education degree
Reviewing Literature – other studies of relationship between education and income
Formulating the Hypothesis – the higher one’s educational degree, the more money you will earn
Collecting and Analyzing Data – making sure the sample was representative and the data were valid and reliable
Developing the Conclusion – the data support the hypothesis about the influence of education on income
Major Research Designs
A research design is a detailed plan or method for obtaining data scientifically. Selection is based on the theories and
hypotheses the researcher starts with. It can be quantitative or qualitative.
Surveys
A survey is a study, generally in the form of an interview or questionnaire that provides researchers with information
about how people think and act. A survey must be based on precise, representative sampling if it is to genuinely reflect
a broad range on the population. An effective survey question must be simple and clear enough for people to
understand. It must be specific enough so that there are no problems in interpreting the results. Open-ended questions
must be carefully phrased to solicit the type of information desired. The two main forms of surveys are the interview
and the questionnaire. The survey is an example of quantitative research, which collects and reports data primarily in
numerical form.
Observation
Investigators who collect information through direct participation and/or by closely watching a group or community are
engaged in observation. This method allows sociologists to examine certain behaviors and communities that could not
be investigated through other research techniques.
Ethnography refers to efforts to describe an entire social setting through extended systematic observation. The
description emphasizes how subjects themselves view their social setting. The initial challenge that participant observes
encounter is to gain acceptance into an unfamiliar group.
In some cases, the sociologist actually joins a group for a period of time to get an accurate sense how it operates –
participant observation.
Sociologists must be able to fully understand what they are observing. Also, researchers cannot allow close associations
or even friendships that inevitably develop to influence the subjects’ behavior or the conclusions of the study.
Experiments
An experiment is an artificially created situation that allows a researcher to manipulate variable. It is used to study
possible cause-and-effect relationship. In the classic method of conducting an experiment, two groups of people are
selected and matched for similar characteristics, such as age or education. The researchers then assign the subject to
one of two groups: the experimental group or the control group. The experimental group is exposed to an independent
variable; the control group is not.
Use of Existing Sources
Sociologists do not always need new data in order to conduct research and test hypotheses. Secondary analysis refers
to a variety of research techniques that make use of previously collected and publicly accessible information and data.
For example, census data can be valuable to marketing specialists in locating everything from bicycle stores to nursing
homes.
In examining sources such as documents, news papers, periodicals, radio, and television tapes, diaries, songs, folklore,
researchers employ a technique known as content analysis.
Ethics of Research
Sociologists must abide by certain specific standards in conducting research, called a Code of Ethics.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Maintain objectivity and integrity in research.
Respect the subject’s right to privacy and dignity.
Protect subjects from personal harm.
Seek informed consent when data are collected from research participants, or when behavior occurs in a private
context.
5. Acknowledge research collaboration and assistance.
6. Disclose all sources of financial support.
Mga Katutubong Pamamaraan sa Pananaliksik (Indigenous Methods) – Mga kaugaliang Pilipino na pinaunlad at
ginagamit sa pagkalap ng datos at sa pananaliksik. Mga angkop ng kapamaraanan sa kalikasan ng mga Pilipino.
Kabuuang Lapit
1. Pakapa-kapa
2. Pakikipanuluyan
3. Pagdadalaw-dalaw
Mga Partikular na Pamamaraan
1. Pagtatanong-tanong
2. Pakikipagkwentuhan