Key Terms SY2

Key Terms SY2

1. Secondary Research

   • Research that already exists, generally used for bigger research so you can focus on links.
   • Can be used as back up research to compare and make results more reliable.
   • Used for general or broad questions.

2. Triangulation

   • Using multiple methods and a combination of techniques.
     • Enables the researcher to compare results and look for similarities and differences.
   • Makes it easier to evaluate complicating results.
   • Tends to be costly and time consuming.

3. Positivists

   • Quantitative Data
     • Numerical data
     • Is repeatable and reliable. Can be generalised.
   • Prefer quantitative data
   • More objective with less scope to interpret the data.
   • Numerical data is prefered as it can be repeated, generalised and is seen as more reliable.

4. Interpretivists

   • Qualitative Data
     • Detailed data
     • It looks at the why, and aims to explain the results, rather than build a correlation.
   • Prefer qualitative data.
   • Looks at the explanation and detail in results, and can sometimes even be qualitative and quantitative.
   • Value is given to complex research, and it is easier to look at complex, detailed studies and looks at the why.

5. Correlation

   • How the results seem visually.
   • Looks at how things match up and link.
   • Looks at the link between two things; eg. The link between exercise and vegetarianism.

6. Causle

   • What can be inferred through results.
   • One thing causes the other to happen.

7. Objectivity

   • Personal views shouldn't shape research.
   • Quantitative results are more objective as they are hard facts.

8. Subjectivity

   • It is easily influenced to become bias and one sided.
   • People can be influenced by the interviewers tone, or own opinion.

9. Ethics

   • External features, not internal.
   • Deception; They should be aware that they are taking part in a study, as well as why.
   • Sensitivity; The researcher must be careful with difficult topics, such as child abuse or sexual abuse.
   • Bias; Researchers should not influence answers by tone of voice or leading questions to encourage a certain response.
   • Confidentiality; The information of participants must be kept private from anyone else but themselves and the researcher.
   • Invasion of Privacy; Like sensitivity, some topics may be intrusive and so consent should be given by participants.
   • Consent; Participants must agree to take part in a study or any research they are used for.
   • These impact the choice of research methods and the topics chosen. Are they possible?
     • Legality; is it legal? For example, the observation of illegal activity.
     • Morals; The methods chosen should keep the participants and the researcher from harm.