Final answer:
In social research, both quantitative and qualitative data play crucial roles, with surveys being a common quantitative method. The chosen method must align with the research question for validity and reliability, and each method has its strengths and limitations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Types of Data in Research
Research methods within the social sciences can incorporate both quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative research involves data that can be quantified and is often used in surveys, which gather numerical data to understand trends and patterns on various topics. For instance, surveys would be a preferred method for researching topics such as public opinion, market research, or demographic studies. However, there can be drawbacks when using surveys, such as biased responses, limitations in question design, and issues with survey distribution and response rates. Qualitative data, on the other hand, encompasses non-numerical observations like interviews and ethnographic field research, providing depth and detail to a study.
When conducting research, selecting an appropriate method is crucial. The selection depends on the research question and the chosen sociological study design. Different methods like surveys, ethnographic field research, interviews (both formal and informal), historical secondary data analysis, and content analysis offer various strengths and limitations. It is essential to align the research method with the specific question to obtain valid and reliable results, keeping in mind ethical considerations, sampling size, and data collection techniques.