How do sociologists judge whether research is any good?
The key evaluative concepts of reliability, validity, representativeness and objectivity, and the difference between quantitative and qualitative data.
A focused answer to the Eduqas GCSE Sociology research methods topic, covering the evaluative concepts of reliability, validity, representativeness and objectivity, and the quantitative versus qualitative distinction.
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What this dot point is asking
Eduqas wants you to know the concepts sociologists use to evaluate research: reliability, validity, representativeness and objectivity, plus the difference between quantitative and qualitative data. These are the tools you use in every methods answer to judge a method's strengths and weaknesses, so they are tested directly and used throughout the topic.
Reliability and validity
Reliability and validity are often a trade-off. Quantitative methods such as questionnaires and structured interviews tend to be high in reliability but lower in validity; qualitative methods such as unstructured interviews and participant observation tend to be high in validity but lower in reliability. Knowing this trade-off lets you evaluate any method quickly.
Representativeness and objectivity
Representativeness decides whether you can generalise; objectivity decides whether you can trust the findings to be unbiased. Both are central to the positivist ideal of scientific, reliable research, while interpretivists are more willing to accept that the researcher's involvement is unavoidable.
Quantitative and qualitative data
The final distinction is between two kinds of data. Quantitative data is numerical: figures, percentages and statistics, such as the results of a questionnaire or official statistics. It is easy to compare and analyse and is favoured by positivists. Qualitative data is detailed words and meanings: the in-depth content of an unstructured interview or observation. It captures meaning and is favoured by interpretivists.
Putting the concepts together gives a checklist for evaluating any research: is it reliable, is it valid, is it representative, is it objective, and is the data quantitative or qualitative? A strong methods answer applies these terms rather than describing a method in everyday language.
Exam-style practice questions
Practice questions written in the style of WJEC Eduqas exam questions on this dot point, with worked answer explainers. The year tag is the paper they imitate, not the source.
Eduqas 20192 marksDescribe what is meant by reliability in research.Show worked answer →
A two-mark describe item: define the term clearly.
Reliability means that if the research were repeated using the same method, it would produce the same or very similar results, so the method is consistent.
Markers reward an accurate definition (consistency, repeatable results). Do not confuse reliability (consistency) with validity (whether the data are true).
Eduqas 20214 marksExplain the difference between reliability and validity.Show worked answer →
A four-mark explain item: define both and bring out the contrast.
Reliability means the research is consistent: repeating it with the same method would give the same results. Validity means the data are true to real life: they actually measure what they claim to and reflect what people really think or do.
Develop the contrast: a method can be reliable but not valid (a standardised questionnaire gives consistent results but may not capture the real meaning behind answers), and the two are often a trade-off, with quantitative methods strong on reliability and qualitative methods strong on validity. Markers reward clear definitions of both and an explicit statement of how they differ.
Related dot points
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Sources & how we know this
- Eduqas GCSE Sociology (C200) specification — WJEC Eduqas (2017)