Research Methods in Social Research: A Comprehensive Guide to Data Collection
Part C of “Research Methods: A Practical Guide for the Social Sciences” by Matthews and Ross focuses on the critical aspect of data collection in social research. This section provides a comprehensive overview of various data collection methods, their applications, and practical considerations for researchers.
The authors emphasize that data collection is a practical activity, building upon the concept of data as a representation of social reality (Matthews & Ross, 2010). They introduce three key continua to help researchers select appropriate tools for their studies:
- Structured/Semi-structured/Unstructured Data
- Present/Absent Researcher
- Active/Passive Researcher
These continua highlight the complexity of choosing data collection methods, emphasizing that it’s not a simple binary decision but rather a nuanced process considering multiple factors[1].
The text outlines essential data collection skills, including record-keeping, format creation, note-taking, communication skills, and technical proficiency. These skills are crucial for ensuring the quality and reliability of collected data[1].
Chapters C3 through C10 explore specific data collection methods in detail:
- Questionnaires: Widely used for collecting structured data from large samples[1].
- Semi-structured Interviews: Offer flexibility for gathering in-depth data[1].
- Focus Groups: Leverage group dynamics to explore attitudes and opinions[1].
- Observation: Involves directly recording behaviors in natural settings[1].
- Narrative Data: Focuses on collecting and analyzing personal stories[1].
- Documents: Valuable sources for insights into past events and social norms[1].
- Secondary Sources of Data: Utilizes existing datasets and statistics[1].
- Computer-Mediated Communication (CMC): Explores new avenues for data collection in the digital age[1].
Each method is presented with its advantages, disadvantages, and practical considerations, providing researchers with a comprehensive toolkit for data collection.
The choice of research method in social research depends on various factors, including the research question, the nature of the data required, and the resources available. As Bryman (2016) notes in “Social Research Methods,” the selection of a research method should be guided by the research problem and the specific aims of the study[2].
Creswell and Creswell (2018) in “Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches” emphasize the importance of aligning the research method with the philosophical worldview of the researcher and the nature of the inquiry[3]. They argue that the choice between qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods approaches should be informed by the research problem and the researcher’s personal experiences and worldviews.
Part C of Matthews and Ross’s “Research Methods: A Practical Guide for the Social Sciences” provides a comprehensive foundation for understanding and implementing various data collection methods in social research. By considering the three key continua and exploring the range of available methods, researchers can make informed decisions about the most appropriate approaches for their specific research questions and contexts.
References:
Matthews, B., & Ross, L. (2010). Research methods: A practical guide for the social sciences. Pearson Education.
Bryman, A. (2016). Social research methods. Oxford University Press.
Creswell, J. W., & Creswell, J. D. (2018). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches. Sage publications.
Citations:
[1] https://www.bol.com/nl/nl/f/research-methods/39340982/
[2] https://search.worldcat.org/title/Research-methods-:-a-practical-guide-for-the-social-sciences/oclc/867911596
[3] https://www.pearson.com/en-gb/subject-catalog/p/research-methods-a-practical-guide-for-the-social-sciences/P200000004950/9781408226186
[4] https://search.worldcat.org/title/Research-methods-:-a-practical-guide-for-the-social-sciences/oclc/780979587
[5] https://www.studeersnel.nl/nl/document/tilburg-university/methodologie-4-ects/summary-research-methods-bob-matthews-liz-ross/109770
[6] https://books.google.com/books/about/Research_Methods.html?id=g2mpBwAAQBAJ
[7] https://books.google.com/books/about/Research_Methods.html?id=7s4ERAAACAAJ
[8] https://academic.oup.com/bjc/article-abstract/52/5/1017/470134?login=false&redirectedFrom=fulltext