Scientific Method
List the five basic steps of the scientific method.
Defining the problem
Reviewing the literature
Formulating the hypothesis
Selecting the research design and collecting/analyzing data
Developing the conclusion
Define a hypothesis.
A speculative statement about the relationship between two or more variables.
Define correlation.
A relationship where a change in one variable coincides with a change in another variable.
What is a survey?
A study, generally an interview or questionnaire, that provides information about how people think and act.
What does ASA stand for?
American Sociological Association
Which step comes immediately after defining the problem?
Reviewing the literature
What is a variable?
A measurable trait or characteristic that can change under different conditions.
True or False: Correlation always means causation.
False
What is the difference between an interview and a questionnaire?
Interview: researcher asks questions face-to-face, by phone, or online.
Questionnaire: written or printed form completed by respondents.
What is a code of ethics?
Standards of acceptable behavior developed by and for members of a profession.
At what step does a researcher collect and analyze data?
Selecting the research design and collecting/analyzing data
What is the difference between an independent and dependent variable?
Independent variable: the variable that causes or influences another variable.
Dependent variable: the variable affected by the independent variable.
Why does correlation not necessarily mean causation?
Because two variables moving together does not prove that one causes the other — another factor may be influencing both.
Define experiment.
An artificially created situation where a researcher manipulates variables.
Define value neutrality.
Objectivity in interpreting data; researchers must not let personal values influence conclusions.
Why is reviewing the literature important before forming a hypothesis?
It helps researchers understand what has already been studied, avoid duplication, refine their question, and build on existing knowledge.
In a study about study time and test scores, identify the independent and dependent variables.
Independent variable: study time
Dependent variable: test scores
Define validity.
The degree to which a measure truly reflects the phenomenon being studied.
What is the difference between an experimental group and a control group?
Experimental group: exposed to the independent variable.
Control group: not exposed to the independent variable.
What is cross-tabulation used for?
It shows the relationship between two or more variables.
What is the final step of the scientific method, and what happens during it?
Developing the conclusion — the researcher interprets findings and determines whether the hypothesis was supported.
What is a control variable and why is it important?
A control variable is a factor held constant to test the impact of the independent variable.
It is important because it prevents outside factors from influencing results.
Give an example of a study that might have low validity and explain why.
Example: A survey measuring “happiness” by only asking about income.
It may have low validity because happiness involves more than income.
Explain the Hawthorne effect.
The Hawthorne effect is when subjects change their behavior because they know they are being observed.
Why is value neutrality important in sociological research?
It ensures research remains objective and unbiased, increasing credibility and trust in findings.