Unit 1: Nature, Context, and Types of Research
The Scientific Method
The scientific method is a systematic approach to research and knowledge-building. It involves
identifying a problem, gathering data, formulating hypotheses, conducting experiments, and
analyzing results to conclude. This method ensures that findings are reliable, valid, and can be
replicated by others. In social science research, the scientific method helps produce structured,
objective, and evidence-based insights into human behavior and society.
The Nature of the Scientific Method
The scientific method is characterized by empirical observation, rigorous testing, and systematic
documentation. It emphasizes objectivity and repeatability, meaning results should be based on
observable evidence and be replicable under similar conditions. For example, in studying social
behavior, a researcher would observe behaviors, form a hypothesis, collect data, and analyze it
without personal bias. This approach ensures that research findings are credible and applicable.
The Context of Social Science Research
Social science research occurs within the broader context of human society, exploring complex
social behaviors, structures, and interactions. It considers cultural, historical, and social factors
and seeks to understand patterns that shape human experiences. For example, a social scientist
studying poverty would not only look at individual cases but also examine socioeconomic
factors, policies, and historical contexts. This context-rich approach provides a deeper
understanding of human issues.
Objectives of Social Science Research
The main objectives of social science research are to describe, explain, and predict social
phenomena. Researchers aim to uncover patterns in human behavior, understand the causes of
social problems, and, where possible, propose solutions. For example, a study on education
inequality might aim to identify key factors leading to disparities in academic performance.
These objectives help in building knowledge, influencing policy, and improving societal
conditions.
Methods of Collecting Information, Verifying, and Analyzing Social Data
Social science research uses both qualitative and quantitative methods for data collection and
analysis. Methods include surveys, interviews, observations, and experiments. Data verification
involves checking reliability (consistency) and validity (accuracy) of information. For instance,
surveys are often used to gather quantitative data, while interviews provide qualitative insights.
Statistical analysis, thematic analysis, and content analysis are common techniques for
interpreting social data to ensure that findings are accurate and meaningful.
Types of Social Research
There are several types of social research, including:
1. Descriptive Research: Describes characteristics or functions of a specific population or
phenomenon. For instance, demographic studies describe age and income distributions
within a community.
2. Explanatory Research: Seeks to understand the causes behind social phenomena. For
example, a study on crime rates may explain why certain areas experience higher crime
levels.
3. Exploratory Research: Used to investigate new areas where little information is
available. An example is a study on emerging social media behaviors among teens.
4. Applied Research: Focuses on solving specific problems and is often used in
policy-making. For instance, research on housing conditions can help develop better
housing policies.
5. Evaluation Research: Assesses the effectiveness of programs or interventions, like
evaluating the impact of a new educational curriculum on student performance.
Unit 2: Social Research Paradigms
Positivism
Positivism is a paradigm that emphasizes objectivity, scientific rigor, and the belief that
knowledge is based on observable, measurable facts. It assumes that reality is objective and can
be understood through empirical research and quantifiable data. In social sciences, positivist
research might involve statistical analysis of survey data to establish patterns and test
hypotheses.
Post-Positivism
Post-positivism builds on positivism but accepts that complete objectivity is impossible,
especially in social sciences. It recognizes that researchers bring biases and that reality is
complex. Post-positivists use methods to reduce bias, like triangulation (using multiple data
sources). They may still use quantitative data but acknowledge limitations. For instance,
post-positivist research on education might use both test scores and interviews to gain a
comprehensive understanding.
Interpretivism
Interpretivism is a paradigm that focuses on understanding human experiences and social
contexts through subjective interpretation. Unlike positivism, it assumes reality is socially
constructed and best understood through qualitative methods, such as interviews or case studies.
Interpretivist research often seeks to understand the meanings people attach to their actions, such
as studying the personal experiences of immigrants in adjusting to a new culture.
Contemporary Research Paradigms
Feminism
Feminist research focuses on gender issues, inequality, and social justice, aiming to uncover and
challenge power imbalances in society. It emphasizes the experiences of women and
marginalized groups and often uses qualitative methods. For example, feminist research might
explore workplace discrimination against women, using interviews to highlight personal
experiences and advocate for policy changes.
Pragmatism
Pragmatism is a flexible approach that values practical outcomes over rigid methods. Pragmatists
use whatever research methods best solve a problem, whether qualitative, quantitative, or mixed
methods. For instance, a pragmatist studying education policy might use surveys, interviews, and
experiments to understand different perspectives and find workable solutions for real-world
challenges.
Postmodernism
Postmodernism questions absolute truths and traditional power structures, emphasizing that
reality is subjective and shaped by individual experiences and cultural contexts. Postmodern
research challenges traditional categories and focuses on marginalized voices. For example, a
postmodernist might analyze how media represents minority groups, exploring the influence of
cultural narratives on identity.
Critical Theory
Critical theory seeks to identify and challenge power structures, advocating for social change by
uncovering inequalities in society. It often examines issues like class, race, and ideology, using
methods that reveal underlying biases and injustices. For instance, critical research might study
how media reinforces racial stereotypes, encouraging reforms in media practices and policies.
Importance of Theory and Research Paradigm
Theory and research paradigms provide a foundation and framework for research, guiding how
studies are conducted and interpreted. Theory explains phenomena by connecting findings to
established knowledge, while paradigms offer philosophical guidance on how reality should be
studied. Using a clear theoretical framework helps researchers interpret data meaningfully and
maintain coherence in their studies. For example, using a feminist theory to analyze workplace
dynamics highlights gender-based power relations, providing a focused lens for understanding
and addressing inequalities. Research paradigms and theory together ensure that studies are
systematically designed, relevant, and aligned with ethical standards.
