Qualitative Research Methods

What is a key feature of unstructured interviews?

• • They use a strict set of questions.

• • They allow for flexibility and free-flowing conversation.

• • They are primarily quantitative.

• • They are conducted through written questionnaires.

Which of the following best describes a semi-structured interview?

• It has no predetermined questions at all.

• It has a mix of open and closed questions.

• It only includes closed-ended questions.

• It requires participants to fill out a survey beforehand.

What is one advantage of semi-structured interviews?

• • They produce easily quantifiable data.

• They allow for follow-up questions and deeper insights.

• They eliminate interviewer bias completely.

• They are always quicker to conduct than other types of interviews.

What is a potential drawback of group interviews?

• They provide a wide range of perspectives.

• They can encourage participants to be more open.

• They are more cost-effective than individual interviews.

• They may lead to conformity and social desirability bias.

Which of the following is an advantage of using group interviews?

• They can stimulate discussion and generate new ideas.

• They guarantee confidentiality for all participants.

• They limit the amount of data collected.

• They reduce the influence of dominant participants.

What is a characteristic of overt participant observation?

• The researcher’s identity is hidden from the participants.

• It is always less ethical than covert observation.

• • The researcher’s presence and purpose are known to the participants.

• It does not require gaining access to the group being studied.

Which of the following is a risk associated with covert participant observation?

• Participants may alter their behavior due to the researcher’s presence.

• It may be difficult for the researcher to record data accurately.

• It is always illegal.

• It ensures that ethical guidelines are always strictly followed.

What distinguishes non-participant observation from participant observation?

• The researcher is actively involved in the daily activities of the group.

• The researcher observes without engaging directly with the group.

• Non-participant observation is typically more subjective.

• Non-participant observation always uses hidden cameras.

In which situation might non-participant observation be most appropriate?

• When studying a sensitive topic where participant engagement could affect results.

• When the researcher wants to influence the group’s behavior.

• When immediate feedback from participants is necessary.

• When the group being studied is aware and collaborative.

Which of the following is a strength of qualitative research methods in sociology?

• They always provide large, generalizable data sets.

• They are quicker and easier to conduct than quantitative methods.

• They offer in-depth understanding of social phenomena.

• They rely solely on numerical data and statistics.