SOC-MET Factors that influence methods

Which of the following is a practical issue in sociological research related to time?

• The need for confidentiality

• The requirement for ethical guidelines

• The scale of research and depth of data collection

• The need for informed consent

Answer explanation

The scale of research and depth of data collection directly impact the time required for sociological studies, making it a practical issue. Larger studies often need more time for thorough data collection and analysis.

What is a consideration when dealing with limited funding in research?

• Using more expensive methods like interviews

• Conducting covert research

• Opting for cost-effective methods like online surveys

• Focusing on vulnerable groups

Answer explanation

When funding is limited, opting for cost-effective methods like online surveys allows researchers to gather data efficiently without overspending, making it a practical choice compared to more expensive methods.

Which factor can influence the choice of research methods based on personal skills?

• The researcher's ability to build rapport

• The availability of funding

• The timing of the research opportunity

• The subject matter being studied

Answer explanation

The researcher's ability to build rapport is crucial as it affects data collection and participant engagement, influencing the choice of qualitative methods. Other factors like funding and timing are less about personal skills.

What is a key point regarding informed consent in ethical research?

• Participants must be paid for their involvement

• Participants must be unaware of the study

• Participants must be able to withdraw at any time

• Participants' identities must be revealed

Answer explanation

A key point of informed consent is that participants must be able to withdraw at any time, ensuring their autonomy and comfort throughout the research process.

What is the impact of confidentiality and privacy in research?

• It ensures participants' autonomy

• It builds trust between researcher and participants

• It prioritizes the researcher's interests

• It allows for covert research

Answer explanation

Confidentiality and privacy in research build trust between researchers and participants, encouraging honest and open communication, which is essential for obtaining reliable data and ensuring ethical standards.

Match the following considerations with their descriptions when researching vulnerable groups.

• Getting approval from responsible adults for minors

• Obtaining consent from a guardian or caregiver

• Ignoring established protocols to protect participants

• Avoiding the use of any ethical guidelines

• Conducting studies without participants' knowledge

• Ensuring participants' identities are revealed

• Disclosing personal information without permission

• Using covert research methods

Answer explanation

Obtaining consent from a guardian or caregiver is crucial when researching vulnerable groups to ensure ethical standards are met and participants' rights are protected.

What is a potential impact of financial restrictions on research?

• It limits the methods that can be used

• It increases the quality of the research

• It ensures all ethical standards are met

• It allows for more in-depth research

Answer explanation

Financial restrictions can limit the methods that researchers can employ, as they may not have access to necessary resources or technologies, thereby constraining the scope and depth of their studies.

Which method is more appropriate for sensitive or personal subjects?

• Secondary data analysis

• Covert research methods

• Qualitative methods like interviews

• Quantitative methods like surveys

Answer explanation

Qualitative methods like interviews are more appropriate for sensitive subjects as they allow for in-depth exploration and personal connection, fostering trust and openness, which is crucial for discussing personal experiences.

A key point about harm to research participants is that researchers must (a)   potential risks.

• Researchers should prioritize their
• Participants' identities should be
• Participants should be put in distr
• Researchers must minimize potential

Answer explanation

A key point about harm to research participants is that researchers must minimize potential risks. This ensures the safety and well-being of participants, which is a fundamental ethical obligation in research.

A consideration for covert research is that it may be justified if revealing the purpose affects (a)  

• behavior
• informed consent
• the preferred method
• participants' privacy

Answer explanation

Covert research may be justified if revealing its purpose could alter participants' behavior, making it essential to maintain the study's integrity. This highlights the importance of context in ethical research practices.