Introduction
Sociology: AQA A Level, topic 1.3.1
Sources of Data
Sociologists use a number of different methods in order to collect data.
Introduction
- Sociologists use a number of different methods in order to collect data.
- These methods will be influenced by different factors, including the theoretical inclination of the researcher (positivist or interpretivist).
- Some methods collect quantitative data while others collect qualitative data and all methods have strengths and weaknesses.
Overarching considerations
- When examining the strengths and weaknesses of different research methods, it’s useful to take into account issues of:
- Practicality, ethics, reliability, validity, examples, representativeness and theoretical considerations.
The Hawthorne effect
- The Hawthorne effect can potentially impact the results of most types of research: once people know they are being observed they might alter their behaviour as a way of pleasing the researcher, for example, by not telling the truth on a questionnaire.