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Sociological research methods

4 dot points across 4 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

What primary methods do sociologists use to collect data?

The main primary research methods: questionnaires, interviews, observations and experiments, and the strengths and weaknesses of each for sociological research.
A focused answer on primary research methods for WJEC GCSE Sociology: questionnaires, structured and unstructured interviews, participant and non-participant observation, and experiments, with the strengths and weaknesses of each.
15 min answer →

What practical and ethical issues must sociologists consider when doing research?

The practical, ethical and theoretical considerations that affect the choice of research method, the role of pilot studies, and the meaning of reliability and validity.
A focused answer on research considerations for WJEC GCSE Sociology: practical, ethical and theoretical factors in choosing a method, pilot studies, and the meaning of reliability and validity.
14 min answer →

How do sociologists choose who to study, and what existing sources can they use?

The idea of a sample and a sampling frame, the main sampling methods including random and quota sampling, and the secondary sources sociologists use such as official statistics and the mass media.
A focused answer on sampling and secondary sources for WJEC GCSE Sociology: samples and sampling frames, random and quota sampling, representativeness, and secondary sources such as official statistics and the mass media.
13 min answer →

How do sociologists carry out research, and what kinds of data do they use?

The stages of the research process, the aim and hypothesis, the difference between primary and secondary data, and the difference between quantitative and qualitative data.
A focused answer on the research process and types of data for WJEC GCSE Sociology: the stages of research, aims and hypotheses, primary and secondary data, and quantitative and qualitative data.
13 min answer →