An introduction to how sociological research is undertaken, with a specific focus on how to research social problems in New Zealand society, research design, ethical considerations and techniques of sociological data collection.
Social science research helps us understand our world and underpins decisions about policy, business, health and more. Knowing the process of sociological research will help you spot misinformation, confidently read reports and news, and support your studies. The ability to conduct high-quality social research is a valuable and sought-after skill that opens up a multitude of employment opportunities. This paper introduces the core techniques used by social scientists to conduct qualitative and quantitative research.
| Paper title | Sociological Research in Practice |
|---|---|
| Paper code | SOCI201 |
| Subject | Sociology |
| EFTS | 0.15 |
| Points | 18 points |
| Teaching period | Semester 1 (On campus) |
| Domestic Tuition Fees (NZD) | $955.05 |
| International Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website. |
- Prerequisite
- (SOCI 101 or SOCI 102 or SOCI 103) or 54 points
- Schedule C
- Arts and Music
- Notes
- May not be credited together with GEOG280 passed before 2005.
- Eligibility
Suitable for undergraduate students interested in understanding and conducting social science research.
- Contact
- More information link
View more information on Sociology, Gender Studies and Criminology's website
- Teaching staff
Course Co-ordinator: Associate Professor Bryndl Hohmann-Marriott
- Paper Structure
This paper combines core concepts with hands-on practice.
- Teaching Arrangements
One 2-hour lecture per week
One 50-minute tutorial per week
- Textbooks
Texts and readings will be available on eReserve and online.
- Graduate Attributes Emphasised
- Global perspective, Lifelong learning, Scholarship, Communication, Critical thinking,
Ethics, Information literacy, Research, Self-motivation, Teamwork.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes. - Learning Outcomes
Students who successfully complete the paper will:
- Become familiar with a range of qualitative and quantitative research methods in the social sciences
- Examine surveys, interviews, and fieldwork
- Identify research approaches underlying these methods
- Understand how to make meaning from data
- Recognise ethical concerns
- Communicate social research
- Identify misinformation and misuse of research
- Explain the social structure of research
