Conducting Research

Scientific Sociology

Science is defined as a a logical system that bases knowledge on

direct, systematic observation. This emphasizes the importance of
empirical evidence –information which can be verified with the senses.

Sociology is a social science. Science assumes that every event

or action results from an antecedent cause-that is, cause-and-effect
relationships prevail in the universe. These causes and effects can be
observed and measured, and sociologists look for correlations among
variables as a way of doing so.

Steps in the Scientific Method

The scientific method includes selecting a researchable problem,

reviewing the
literature, formulating a hypothesis, creating an operational definition,
choosing a research design, collecting the data, analyzing the data,
and stating conclusions.

Research Ethics

It is important that sociologists observe the ethics of their

discipline in carrying out research. They have an obligation not to
expose their subjects to substantial risk or personal harm in the
research process and to protect the rights and dignity of their subjects.

Research Methods
 A research method is a systematic plan for conducting research.
Four major techniques of data collection are available to sociologists:
experiments, surveys, observation, and archival research. In the
experiment, researchers work with an experimental group and a
control group to test the effects of an independent variable on a
dependent variable. Interviewing and questionnaires constitute the
primary techniques used in surveys, using random or stratified random
samples. Observation can take the form of participant observation or
unobtrusive observation. Other techniques include archival research
and feminist methodology.

The following are some of the Sociological Research Methods:

Testing a Hypothesis – the experiment

Asking questions – the survey
In the field – participant observation
Using Available Data – existing sources

Experiment

This is a research method for investigating cause and effect

under highly controlled conditions. The steps in this method are the
following: a) Formulate hypotheses; b) Measure dependent variable; c)
Expose dependent to independent variable; d) Measure dependent
variable again; e) Control other factors.

Survey
 A research method in which subjects respond to a series of
questions in a questionnaire or an interview.
Population – a category of interest (College students)
Sample – a much smaller number of subjects selected to represent the
population.

Questionnaire

In the Questionnaire, the researcher lets subjects choose

possible answers. The advantages: a) Less cost intensive; b) Ideal for
large populations; c)Non-obtrusive; d) Ensures confidentiality
(privacy). While the disadvantages are: a) High non-response rates
b)Increases likelihood of misinterpretation; c) Does not encourage
follow-up or probing questions

Interview

Interview: is where the researcher personally asks the questions.

The advantages are: a) Reduces non-response rate; b) Offers subjects
the freedom to express themselves; c) Encourages follow-up
questions; d) Allows researcher to probe deeper; e)Reduces
incidence of question misinterpretation.

The disadvantages are: a) Face to face contact may influence

response; b) More expensive and more time consuming; c) Impacts
confidentiality.

Participant observation
 This is a research method where the researcher is systematically
observing people while joining them in their routine activities.

Its advantages: a) Offers a natural setting; b) Flexibility; c)

Insiders viewpoint; d) Non obtrusive. Its disadvantages: a) Memory
lapse; b) Familiarity could lead to a loss of focus; c) Time consuming

Existing Data Sources (Secondary Data/Archival)

This research method is the use of existing data collected by

others to perform research. Since, Sociology deals with society, there
are varied agencies and organizations that already compile pertinent
data which may be utilized in the sociological research. There are, for
example, yearly data on the population and others which are critical in
the study of society. Sociologist may look in this data and use it for
their studies.

Sources of secondary data:

 Government agencies (NSO)
 Non-governmental organizations (CBCP, PPCRV, AKBAYAN)
 Research companies (IBON, Pulse Asia, SWS)

Benefits of using secondary data:

 Saves time and money
 Provides reliable data with relative ease

Ten Steps in Sociological Research

The following questions are guide which may prove helpful in the
students who are interested in doing their sociological research. By
posing the following questions and answering them properly, the
significance of the proposed research is validated.

1) What is your topic?

2) What have others already learned?
3) What, exactly are your questions?
4) What will you need to carry out research?
5) Are there ethical concerns?
6) What method will you use?
7) How will you record the data?
8) What do the data tell you?
9) What are your conclusions?
10) How can you share what you have learned?