SOCIAL RESEARCH METHODS

Introduction to Social Research Methods



Introduction to Social Research Methods

Outline of the Research Problem

When the research identified, the first thing, which the researcher faces is to finalize the appropriate research method, by which the research finds the proper solution to the identified research problem.

Research Questions

How to determine the appropriate method to be used in the research?

What is the importance of choosing an appropriate research method?

What can be the impact of choosing an inappropriate research method?

What are the key factors in considering an appropriate research method?

Research Methods

The two research methods discussed here are the quantitative and the qualitative research methods. Qualitative technique further leads to inductive approach whereas quantitative technique explores deductive approach respectively (Firebaugh, 2008, p. 63).

Though, both qualitative and quantitative technique, possess immense value in terms of carrying out any form of academic research, they are very much distinguished from each other (Firebaugh, 2008, p. 63). The researcher has to choose anyone of them to make the study more systematic and formal; however, they both together may also be used together in the same study under the perspective mixed methodology but usually either of them a single technique selected. In fact, mixed methodology may become complex and complicated to some extent depending on the nature of study (Neuman, 2006, p. 33-34).

Moreover, the quantitative technique applied when researcher intended to measure the collected data statistically. On the other hand, under the qualitative mood data descriptively analyzed (Neuman, 2006, p. 33-34). Subsequently, the former technique explain already existed facts testing the proposed theory while latter technique explores some other aspects of study formulating of a new theory. Therefore, the selection of qualitative technique made after taking into account all these factors to meet the requirement of the proposed research study. In fact, the title of the proposed study is unique and aimed at elaborating new dimensions (Neuman, 2006, p. 33-34).

The quantitative methods in social research include all procedures for the numerical representation of empirical facts, but also to support the conclusions from the empirical findings by means of inferential statistics. Quantitative methods involve among other things, sampling and analysis, data collection. Frequently in the coming election analysis and market and opinion research in addition to quantitative methods, qualitative methods used, such as semi-structured interviews (Hunter, Laura, et al, 2008, p. 290-306). Quantitative methods often seen in the social sciences as opposed to qualitative methods. This must not necessarily be the case, since it is entirely possible to use both types of methods in combination.

Qualitative research or qualitative methodology is a method used primarily for research in social sciences cuts based on theoretical principles based methodologies such as phenomenology, hermeneutics, and the social interaction using data collection methods are not quantitative, in purpose of exploring the social and describe reality as experienced by the corresponding. Qualitative research requires a deep understanding of human behavior and the reasons that govern it (Hunter, Laura, et al, 2008, p. 290-306). Unlike quantitative research, qualitative research seeks to explain the reasons for the contrasting ...