Methods of Sociological Research

Description

Sociologists use many different designs and methods to study society and social behaviour. Most sociological research involves ethnography, or “field work“ designed to depict the characteristics of a population as fully as possible. Research in social sciences, as in other fields is a search for knowledge. It provides assistance in making reasonable decisions. Acknowledge of the research process is essential both for these who take an active role in the conduct of research and for those who desire to keep abreast of the new knowledge being contributed by others through research. An introduction to research methods in Sociology covering quantitative, qualitative, primary and secondary data and defining the basic types of research method including social surveys, experiments, interviews, participant observation, ethnography and longitudinal studies. Sociological knowledge has a strong empirical core, meaning that sociologists' statements from research are based on data or evidence. Sociologists employ a variety of research methods that may follow the scientific method to evaluate formal hypotheses, or be more humanistic and focus on ways people themselves understand and describe their social worlds. Sociological research follows established ethical guidelines that protect participants and ensure integrity in research. This book provides students with a comprehensive introduction to practices and procedures in social research.