Key Methods (AQA A-Level Sociology): Flashcards

Survey methods where questions are written down for response

High reliability - consistent results with similar groups

Low validity - less truthful, socially desirable answers

Excel at uncovering meanings about educational issues

Low reliability - each conversation differs

Overt, covert, participant, non-participant

People behave differently when they know they're being observed

Detailed research at one particular location e.g. specific school

Using multiple methods to build comprehensive understanding

Research over significant time periods to observe changes

Participants drop out over time e.g. moving away, losing interest

Information collected by others that already exists

Extent research, if repeated, would achieve consistent results

Extent research accurately reflects real-life situations

People respond to appear positive rather than truthful