IGNOU BSOC 112 Important Questions With Answers English Medium
BSOC 112 Sociological Research Methods-I is a core course offered by Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) for its Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Sociology (BASOH) program.
Course Structure:
- Block 1: Introduction to Social Research:
- This block sets the stage by familiarizing you with:
- The nature and purpose of sociological research.
- Different research designs and methodologies (quantitative, qualitative, mixed methods).
- Ethical considerations in social research.
- The research process: from formulating research questions to data collection and analysis.
- Block 2: Research Design and Techniques:
- This block delves deeper into specific research designs and techniques, including:
- Quantitative research: Surveys, experiments, observational methods, sampling techniques, data analysis using statistical software.
- Qualitative research: Interviews, focus groups, ethnographic methods, content analysis, discourse analysis.
- Mixed methods research: Combining quantitative and qualitative approaches for a richer understanding.
- Block 3: Data Collection and Analysis:
- This block focuses on the practical skills of data collection and analysis, covering:
- Interviewing techniques and participant observation.
- Document analysis and coding qualitative data.
- Analyzing quantitative data using descriptive statistics and basic tests.
- Using data analysis software tools.
- Block 4 (Optional): Specialized Research Techniques:
- This block may introduce you to specific research techniques tailored to different areas of sociology, such as:
- Social surveys and questionnaire design.
- Field research methods and participant observation techniques.
- Content analysis and discourse analysis tools.
- Ethical considerations in specific research contexts.
Q.1
Discuss the nature and scope of quantitative research.
Quantitative research is a systematic inquiry method focused
on quantifying variables and analyzing numerical data to comprehend phenomena,
relationships, and patterns. It relies on statistical techniques and numerical
analysis to derive conclusions and generalize findings about the population
under study. The nature and scope of quantitative research encompass various
facets, including its defining characteristics, methodologies, applications,
strengths, and limitations.
At its core, quantitative research is distinguished by its
emphasis on measurement, objectivity, and generalizability. Unlike qualitative
inquiry, which delves into subjective experiences and interpretations,
quantitative research prioritizes obtaining precise measurements and numerical
data that can be statistically analyzed. This objective stance enables researchers
to test hypotheses, discern trends, and make predictions based on empirical
evidence. The methodology often involves large sample sizes and structured data
collection methods, such as surveys, experiments, or observations, to ensure
the reliability and validity of findings.
Also Read-
- IGNOU BSOC 110 Important Questions With Answers English Medium
- IGNOU BSOC 109 Important Questions With Answers English Medium
- IGNOU BSOC 108 Important Questions With Answers English Medium
Quantitative research is widely applicable across
disciplines, spanning psychology, sociology, economics, education, health
sciences, and beyond. Within each field, quantitative methods are deployed to
address a diverse array of research questions and objectives. For instance, in
psychology, quantitative research might explore the efficacy of psychological
interventions, prevalence rates of mental health disorders, or factors
influencing human behavior. Similarly, in economics, quantitative inquiry may
scrutinize economic indicators, trends, and relationships to inform policy
decisions or forecast market outcomes.
The methodologies employed in quantitative research encompass
various techniques for data collection and analysis. Surveys, experiments,
observational studies, and secondary data analysis are common approaches for
gathering quantitative data. Surveys involve administering structured
questionnaires or interviews to sample populations to collect data on their
attitudes, beliefs, or behaviors. Experiments entail manipulating independent
variables to observe their effects on dependent variables under controlled
conditions. Observational studies systematically observe and record behaviors
or events in natural settings. Secondary data analysis involves scrutinizing
existing datasets collected for other purposes, such as government surveys or
organizational records.
FOR
SOLVED PDF
WhatsApp – 8130208920
A fundamental aspect of quantitative research is statistical
analysis, enabling researchers to analyze and interpret numerical data to test
hypotheses and draw conclusions. Descriptive statistics, such as measures of
central tendency (e.g., mean, median, mode) and variability (e.g., standard
deviation, range), are used to summarize and describe data characteristics.
Inferential statistics, such as hypothesis testing, regression analysis, and
analysis of variance (ANOVA), are employed to make inferences and draw
conclusions about populations based on sample data. These statistical
techniques aid researchers in determining the significance of relationships,
differences, or associations observed in the data.
The applications of quantitative research are extensive and
diverse, spanning academic and applied domains. In academia, quantitative
research is utilized to advance knowledge and theory across disciplines,
providing empirical support for theoretical frameworks. In applied settings, it
informs decision-making, evaluates programs or interventions, and addresses
practical challenges in fields such as public policy, healthcare, marketing,
and education.
Also Read-
Quantitative research offers several strengths, including its
ability to provide precise measurements, test hypotheses rigorously, and
generalize findings to broader populations. Its systematic and empirical
approach enhances the credibility and reliability of findings, making it
valuable for informing evidence-based practices and policy decisions. Moreover,
quantitative research facilitates replication and comparison across studies,
fostering cumulative knowledge development and scientific progress.
However, quantitative research also has limitations and
challenges. It may oversimplify complex phenomena and contexts, potentially
overlooking nuanced aspects of human experiences. Standardized measurement
tools and operational definitions may not capture the full breadth of phenomena
under investigation. Researchers must also contend with issues like sampling
bias, measurement error, and confounding variables, which can impact the
validity and reliability of findings. Additionally, quantitative research can be
resource-intensive and time-consuming, requiring specialized skills, equipment,
and software for data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
Q.2
In what way does empirical research influence sociological theory ? Explain.
Q.3
Discuss the significance of reflexivity in social science research.
Q.4
According to Radcliffe Brown, how do social anthropologists differ from
ethnologists in the use of historical method ?
Q.5
What is experimental research ? Explain
Q.6
What is qualitative research ? Discuss the importance of visual method and
documents in qualitative research.
Q.7
What is comparative method ? Discuss Murdock’s use of comparative method in the
study of cultures
Q.8
How do you think the traditional moments are marked differently from the
post-modern moments of qualitative research?
Q.9
Why do you think symbolic interaction is based on the methods of qualitative
research?
Q.10
What is a variable? What are its types?
FOR
SOLVED PDF
WhatsApp – 8130208920
Q.11
How is Problem formulation done in Quantitative Research?
Q.12
What are the levels of Measurement?
Q.13
Why should social facts be treated as things?
Q.14
How does theory differ from ideology and what is its focus?
Q.15
Discuss the interdependence of theory and research
0 comments:
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.