Social Science Research Methods

HHG4M Mr. Ellis

The Process

Through brainstorming and preliminary research, identify a question that will focus your inquiry. Focusing means going from broad to more narrow. Research questions should be open-ended (you cannot answer with a simple yes or no).

Defining the Question

Quantitative designs approach social phenomena through quantifiable evidence, and often rely on statistical analysis of many cases (or across intentionally designed treatments in an experiment) to create valid and reliable general claims.

Qualitative designs emphasize understanding of social phenomena through direct observation, communication with participants, or analysis of texts, and may stress contextual and subjective accuracy over generality

You can gather data using primary and/or secondary research and/or sources.
Secondary Researching data and information already collected by another researcher.

Primary Research The researcher is the first person (primary) to view the research. The researcher performs the research. You will be conducting primary research when you conduct an interview or a survey. Source An original document or account that is not about another document or account.

Interpretations of primary sources, such as journal articles or books about another book, topic, photograph, etc.

One or more of the eight research methods could be used.

Observation Participatory Observation Personal Interview Survey Historical Research Official Statistics Review of Literature

Which methods are primary research methods and which are secondary research methods?

Which is the best method to test your hypothesis?

Does your research question lead you to a particular research method?

Observation Participatory Observation Personal Interview Phenomenology Survey Historical Research Official Statistics Review of Literature

Selecting a Research Method

Bias is motivated by a lack of objectivity, or a prejudiced perspective on a topic. Researchers may be pursuing a specific, desired outcome through biased research practices. The researchers personal beliefs, attitudes, interests, and values can influence their research processes. Bias can be evident in the use of language, especially in discussions that refer to:

Checking for Bias

people with disabilities; People with disabilities should be referred to with respect. Avoid texts that refer to the individual with labels that imply that the person is entirely characterized by the disability, that the person is ill, or that exaggerate the limitations of the disability. Rather, look for language that acknowledges the individual as a contributing member of society, rather than a dependent patient or client.

Types of Bias

racial/ethnic groups; When racially and ethnically diverse people are identified, writers need to be as accurate as possible with culturally relative, current terminology that is acceptable to the group. Researchers must also be aware of evaluating a group against their own culture, and creating an ethnocentric bias.

Types of Bias cont.

gender; The APA recommends non-sexist language, unless it is relevant to the discussion to refer specifically to minority or special-interest groups.

Types of Bias cont.

 SKIM: Skim the text, noting the subheadings of sections. HIGHLIGHT: Read through the resource or article, highlight important information and take brief notes. MAIN POINTS: In your own words, write down the main points from each section of the resource or article. SUPPORT POINTS: Write down the key supporting points for the main topics of the resource or article.

How to Read an Academic Article