Sources of Data Empirical Research needs empirical observations of the world Some sort of collection process is required

Observation & Sampling Public opinion polls (survey research). Interviews (field research) Newspaper articles (content analysis). Need to take a sample from the larger populaiton.

Types of Sampling Probability sampling –i.e., random Nonprobability sampling –i.e., Convenience, purposive, snowball

Survey Research Telephone, mail, in-person, [web] Reach large numbers of people –Random selection, statistics –Response rate is an issue But hard to “dig deep” Reliability over validity

Field Research Talking, Listening, Watching Best to study attitudes and behaviors best understood in a natural setting. Social processes over time.

Elements of Social Life Appropriate to Field Research Practices: talking, reading a book Episodes: divorce, crime, illness Encounters: people meeting and interacting Role: occupations, family roles Relationships: friendships, family

Observations the World Complete Participant Complete Observer Participant/Observer What is the Hawthorn Effect? Ethical considerations?

Interviews In-depth, can “dig deep” In-person (or telephone) Structure, semi-structured Flexible Very small samples Not generalizable

Interviews In-depth, can “dig deep” In-person (or telephone) Structure, semi-structured Flexible Very small samples Not generalizable

Focus Groups Originated in market research Growing popularity in the social scientists Very Flexible Speedy results Low in cost Lack of anonymity

Secondary Sources Existing statistics –GSS; Census; ICPSR Newspapers, Journal articles, books Content analysis