Final answer:
The data collection method for a qualitative design, such as observation, interviews, surveys, or experiments, should be chosen based on the research question, subject of study, and specific research needs.
Step-by-step explanation:
Choosing a data collection method for a qualitative design depends on the research question, the subject of study, and the specific needs of the research. Common qualitative methods include observation, interviews, surveys, and experiments, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. For instance, interviews can provide in-depth information from a small number of respondents, while surveys can gather broader data from larger samples, but may not provide the same depth of understanding. Conducting observations offers rich, context-specific data, but often from a limited sample size, making it hard to generalize findings. Experiments are less common in qualitative research because they are typically designed to test hypotheses and are more suited to quantitative approaches. When selecting a method, sociologists must consider these aspects to ensure the research design allows for proper data collection and analysis in line with their goals.