Worksheet Solutions: Doing Sociology: Research Methods | Sociology Class 11 - Humanities/Arts PDF Download

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Q1: Sociology is a valuable tool for understanding the _______________ that affect us as individuals and members of larger organizations.
Ans: problems
Sociology is a discipline that focuses on the study of social interactions, structures, and institutions. It helps us understand the various social problems that impact both individuals and larger organizations, providing insights into societal challenges and issues.

Q2: To achieve objectivity in sociology, it's necessary to set aside individual emotions or _______________ about a matter.
Ans: opinions
Objectivity in sociology involves approaching a research topic without being influenced by personal emotions or opinions. This is essential to ensure that research is conducted in a neutral and unbiased manner.

Q3: _______________ research focuses on variables that can be enumerated or measured.
Ans: Quantitative
Quantitative research is a method that involves collecting data in a form that can be quantified or expressed numerically. It focuses on variables that can be measured, such as quantities, numbers, or percentages.

Q4: Subjectivity pertains to cognitive content that originates from the thinking subject, rather than the object of thought. Individuals attach _______________ to their actions.
Ans: significance
Subjectivity in sociology refers to the individual's personal perspective and how they attach meaning and significance to their actions and experiences. It acknowledges that people bring their own interpretations and values to their social interactions.

Q5: Qualitative research centers on more elusive variables that are harder to quantify, such as attitudes, _______________, values, and so forth.
Ans: emotions
Qualitative research focuses on exploring the subjective aspects of human behavior and experiences, which are often more elusive and challenging to measure. This includes emotions, values, beliefs, and attitudes, which are rich and complex aspects of human life.

Q6: Primary research aims to produce fresh or "primary" data, with _______________ being a key source of primary data.
Ans: interviews
Primary research involves collecting new and original data specifically for a research study. Interviews are a common method used to gather primary data, as researchers directly interact with individuals or groups to obtain firsthand information.

Q7: When sociologists practice self-reflexivity, there's always a possibility of unconscious _______________.
Ans: bias
Self-reflexivity in sociology involves reflecting on one's own perspectives and potential biases in research. Even when sociologists practice self-reflexivity, there is always a possibility of unconscious bias, which can be unintentional and difficult to identify.

Q8: Sociological research provides data and information that can be used as evidence to support a _______________.
Ans: claim
The purpose of sociological research is to collect data and information that can be used as evidence to support a claim, hypothesis, or conclusion. Research provides a factual basis for making statements about social phenomena.

Q9: Through rigorous and persistent questioning of one's own ideas and emotions related to the research topic, sociologists protect themselves from _______________.
Ans: dangers
Sociologists aim to protect themselves from potential biases and pitfalls in research by constantly questioning their own ideas and emotions related to the research topic. This rigorous self-examination helps mitigate the dangers of bias and subjectivity.

Q10: Given the existence of multiple truths and perspectives, there is no one definitive approach to uncovering _______________.
Ans: social truth
Sociology deals with complex and multifaceted social issues, and there can be different truths and perspectives depending on the context and the groups involved. This diversity of perspectives makes it challenging to identify a single, definitive approach to uncovering social truth, as multiple valid viewpoints may exist.

Assertion and Reason Based

Q1: Assertion: Sociological research is driven by values that are cultural products.
Reason: Sociological research is objective and free from cultural influence.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.
Ans: (b)
The assertion is true because sociological research is influenced by cultural values and perspectives. However, the reason is not a correct explanation because sociological research is not entirely objective; it is subject to cultural influence.

Q2: Assertion: Qualitative research focuses on variables that can be easily measured.
Reason: Qualitative research deals with attitudes, emotions, and values.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.
Ans: (c)
The assertion is false because qualitative research does not focus on variables that are easily measured. The reason is true, as qualitative research indeed deals with attitudes, emotions, and values.

Q3: Assertion: Primary research aims to produce fresh data.
Reason: Secondary research relies on primary data.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.
Ans: (a)
Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion. Primary research aims to generate fresh data, while secondary research uses pre-existing data.

Q4: Assertion: Sociologists may be impacted by attitudes towards a group in their own social environment.
Reason: Sociologists always maintain objectivity in their research.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.
Ans: (b)
Both the assertion and reason are true. Sociologists can be influenced by attitudes in their social environment, but maintaining objectivity is a goal, not a guarantee.

Q5: Assertion: Multiple methodologies in sociology have no strengths or weaknesses.
Reason: Debating the superiority or inferiority of various methods is futile.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.
Ans: (a)
Both the assertion and reason are true. There are strengths and weaknesses in different research methodologies, and debates about their superiority or inferiority are often unproductive.

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: What is the primary concern when it comes to achieving objectivity in sociology?
Ans: Partiality

Q2: What is self-reflexivity in sociological research?
Ans: Adopting an outsider's viewpoint and considering the research through the perspective of others.

Q3: Why is it important for sociologists to acknowledge subjectivity in social research?
Ans: To decipher meanings that can furnish solutions to research inquiries.

Q4: What is the main focus of quantitative research?
Ans: Variables that can be enumerated or measured.

Q5: Give an example of a qualitative research method.
Ans: Interviews.

Q6: What is the key source of primary data in primary research?
Ans: Interviews.

Q7: How can sociologists protect themselves from unconscious bias in research?
Ans: By openly disclosing any relevant aspects of their own social history.

Q8: What is the purpose of sociological research?
Ans: To provide data and information that can be used as evidence to support a claim.

Q9: Why is there no one definitive approach to uncovering social truth in sociology?
Ans: Due to the existence of multiple truths and perspectives.

Q10: What are the elusive variables that qualitative research focuses on?
Ans: Attitudes, emotions, values, and similar aspects.

Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: Explain the concept of objectivity in sociology and the challenges sociologists face in achieving it. 
Ans: Objectivity in sociology refers to the ability to set aside individual emotions and opinions when conducting research. The challenge lies in the fact that social scientists are also members of society, and they may have biases, preferences, or preconceived notions about the subjects they study. For instance, a sociologist studying a different religious or caste group may be influenced by the prevailing attitudes in their own social environment. To address this, sociologists practice self-reflexivity, where they adopt an outsider's viewpoint and consider their research from the perspective of others. However, unconscious bias is always a possibility, which is why sociologists openly disclose relevant aspects of their social history that may influence their opinions. This transparency alerts readers to potential bias and allows them to account for it when reviewing research.

Q2: Discuss the differences between quantitative and qualitative research in sociology.
Ans: Quantitative research in sociology focuses on variables that can be measured or enumerated. It involves the use of structured surveys, questionnaires, and statistical analysis to gather data. In contrast, qualitative research deals with more elusive variables that are harder to quantify, such as attitudes, emotions, and values. Qualitative research methods include in-depth interviews, participant observations, and content analysis of items like paintings or advertisements. Quantitative research seeks to provide numerical data that can be analyzed statistically, while qualitative research aims to uncover rich, detailed insights about human behavior and experiences. Both approaches have their strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between them depends on the research objectives and the nature of the research questions.

Q3: What is the significance of subjectivity in sociological research? How can sociologists utilize subjectivity to benefit their research inquiries?
Ans: Subjectivity in sociological research refers to the cognitive content that originates from the thinking subject, rather than the object of thought. It acknowledges that individuals attach meaning to their actions and experiences. Sociologists must recognize the subjectivity inherent in the social realm and use it to decipher meanings that can provide solutions to research inquiries. Subjectivity allows sociologists to understand the unique perspectives, values, and emotions of individuals and groups. By embracing subjectivity, sociologists can delve deeper into the lived experiences of people and gain insights that quantitative research might miss. It enables researchers to explore complex social phenomena, such as cultural norms, beliefs, and personal experiences, which are essential for a comprehensive understanding of society.

Q4: Explain the concept of primary research and provide an example of a key source of primary data in sociological research. 
Ans: Primary research in sociology aims to produce fresh or "primary" data specifically for a research study. It involves collecting data directly from the source, often through methods like surveys, interviews, observations, or experiments. One key source of primary data in sociological research is interviews. Researchers conduct interviews with individuals or groups to gather firsthand information about their experiences, perspectives, and behaviors. This primary data is essential for conducting in-depth studies and gaining unique insights into the research topic. Interviews allow sociologists to explore the thoughts, emotions, and attitudes of the subjects, making it a valuable method for qualitative research.

Q5: Differentiate between objectivity and subjectivity in sociology and explain their roles in sociological research. 
Ans: Objectivity and subjectivity are two contrasting concepts in sociology. Objectivity refers to the ability to set aside personal emotions and opinions when conducting research. It involves approaching a research topic without bias and with a neutral perspective. Objectivity is crucial in maintaining the scientific rigor of sociological research. Subjectivity, on the other hand, acknowledges that individuals attach meaning to their actions and experiences. It recognizes the role of personal beliefs and emotions in shaping social interactions. In sociological research, subjectivity can be valuable as it allows researchers to understand and interpret the unique perspectives, values, and emotions of individuals and groups. Sociologists aim to strike a balance between objectivity and subjectivity. While they strive for objectivity in data collection and analysis, they also utilize subjectivity to gain insights into the rich tapestry of human experiences, which is essential for a holistic understanding of society.

Long Answer Type Questions

Q1: Discuss the concept of objectivity in sociological research, its importance, and the methods that sociologists use to protect themselves from potential biases.
Ans: Objectivity in sociological research is the ability to approach a research topic without personal biases or emotions. It is crucial for maintaining the scientific rigor of research and ensuring that the results are credible and reliable. Achieving objectivity can be challenging for sociologists, as they are also part of society and may share preferences and aversions with others. For example, when studying a different religious or caste group, sociologists may be influenced by prevailing attitudes in their own social environment. To protect themselves from these dangers, sociologists employ several methods. They engage in rigorous and persistent questioning of their own ideas and emotions related to the research topic. Self-reflexivity is another method, involving adopting an outsider's viewpoint and considering the research through the perspective of others. However, sociologists acknowledge that unconscious bias is possible, so they openly disclose any relevant aspects of their own social history that may influence their opinions. This transparency allows readers to account for potential bias when reviewing research.

Q2: Compare and contrast quantitative and qualitative research methods in sociology, highlighting their respective strengths and weaknesses.
Ans: Quantitative and qualitative research are two distinct approaches in sociological research, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Quantitative research focuses on variables that can be measured or enumerated and often employs structured surveys or questionnaires. It provides numerical data that can be analyzed statistically, making it suitable for hypothesis testing and generalizability. Quantitative research is highly replicable and allows for comparisons across different groups or time periods. However, it may oversimplify complex social phenomena and miss nuances in human behavior and experiences. In contrast, qualitative research centers on more elusive variables, such as attitudes, emotions, and values. It uses methods like interviews, participant observations, and content analysis to gather rich, detailed insights. Qualitative research is valuable for exploring complex social phenomena and understanding the perspectives of individuals. It provides a deeper understanding of the "why" and "how" behind human behavior but may lack generalizability. Both approaches are complementary, and the choice between them depends on the research objectives and the nature of the research questions.

Q3: Explain the significance of subjectivity in sociological research and how sociologists can utilize subjectivity to benefit their research inquiries.
Ans: Subjectivity in sociological research acknowledges that individuals attach meaning to their actions and experiences. It recognizes the role of personal beliefs, emotions, and cultural contexts in shaping social interactions. Subjectivity is significant in sociological research because it allows researchers to delve into the unique perspectives, values, and emotions of individuals and groups. Sociologists can utilize subjectivity to gain insights into the rich tapestry of human experiences. Subjectivity enables researchers to explore complex social phenomena, cultural norms, and personal experiences that quantitative research might miss. By embracing subjectivity, sociologists can offer a more holistic understanding of society and its diverse components. It allows them to interpret the "whys" and "hows" behind social behaviors and beliefs. Subjectivity is particularly valuable in qualitative research, as it helps researchers uncover the nuances and meanings that quantitative data cannot capture.

Q4: Describe the concept of primary research in sociology and provide examples of primary data sources. Explain how primary research differs from secondary research.
Ans: Primary research in sociology involves the collection of fresh or "primary" data specifically for a research study. Researchers gather data directly from the source, often through methods like surveys, interviews, observations, or experiments. One key source of primary data in sociological research is interviews, where researchers engage with individuals or groups to obtain firsthand information about their experiences, perspectives, and behaviors. Another source is participant observation, where researchers immerse themselves in a social setting to observe and document interactions and behaviors. Surveys and experiments are also common methods for collecting primary data. Primary research is valuable for in-depth studies and gaining unique insights into the research topic.
Secondary research, on the other hand, relies on pre-existing or "secondary" data that has already been gathered. This can include documents, records, artifacts, or data collected by other researchers. Secondary research is commonly used in historical studies and archival research. The key difference between primary and secondary research is that primary research generates new data specific to a research question, while secondary research utilizes existing data. Researchers often choose between primary and secondary research methods based on their research objectives and the availability of relevant data.