Understanding Survey Methods in Sociology

What is the first stage in conducting a survey in sociology?

• Decision about data collection method

• Hypothesis

• Pilot study

• Publish report

Which of the following is a problem associated with the validity of surveys according to interpretivists?

• Generalisation

• Reliability

• Imposition

• Sampling method

What is a key advantage of using questionnaires in sociological research?

• They provide detailed qualitative data

• They are expensive and time-consuming

• They allow for easy quantification of data

• They are flexible and can be changed during the survey

What is the purpose of conducting a pilot study in survey research?

• To publish the final report

• To test questions and ensure clarity

• To collect the final data

• To analyse and interpret results

Which of the following is a common issue with the language used in questionnaires?

• Use of complex mathematical equations

• Use of leading questions

• Use of multiple languages

What is a disadvantage of using open questions in questionnaires?

• They are easy to quantify

• They provide limited detail

• They are harder to quantify

• They are always biased

Which of the following is NOT a problem with achieving scientific accuracy in surveys?

• Validity

• Generalisation

• Reliability

• Cost

What is the main tool of measurement in positivist sociology?

• Interviews

• Observations

• Questionnaires

• Case studies

Why might questionnaires fail to produce a valid picture of the social world according to interpretivists?

• They are too expensive

• They impose the researcher's framework

• They are too detailed

• They are too flexible

What is a potential problem with the generalisation of survey results?

• Attrition of sample

• High cost

• too detailed