Research Methods and Techniques: Sampling and Inquiry
Code
711081057
Academic unit
Faculdade de Ciências Sociais e Humanas
Department
Sociologia
Credits
6
Teacher in charge
José Alberto Simões, Tiago Santos
Weekly hours
4
Teaching language
Portuguese
Objectives
a) To understand the problem of quantitative research in social sciences;
b) To know and understand basic statistical notions associated with quantitative research and, particularly, with sampling techniques;
c) To understand the problem and functionality of sampling methods and techniques in the context research in sociology;
d) To know and understand the techniques, principles and types of sampling procedures;
e) To develop the ability to recognize the sampling procedures used in real-world examples;
f) To develop the ability to critically assess the theoretical relevance and correct application of the techniques of sampling procedures used in elementary real examples;
g) To develop the ability to create elementary processes of application of sampling;
h) To know and understand the theoretical concepts and methodological principles associated with conducting surveys and in particular the construction of questionnaires;
i) To develop the ability to critically assess the theoretical relevance and correct application of the instruments of survey used in real examples;
j) To develop the ability of devising survey instruments.
Prerequisites
It is suggested that students previously take the course of Theory and Methodology of Social Sciences.
Subject matter
I - QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH AND METHODOLOGY
1. Theory, empirical research and measurement in sociology
2. Levels of measurement and construction of variables
II – SAMPLING
1. Introduction to sampling procedures
2. Random sampling
3. Non random sampling
3.1. Quota sampling
3.2. Purposive sampling and snowball
4. General logic design of sampling plans
III - INVESTIGATION BY QUESTIONNAIRE
1. Observation and measurement in the Social Sciences, types of questionnaires, collection methods and situations
2. The questionnaire: between the theoretical and empirical conceptualization
3. Principles for organizing and administering a questionnaire
4. Questions, groups of questions and scales
5. Methods of response, record types, pre-coding and filters
Bibliography
Arber, S. (2001). “Designing samples”, in Gilbert, N. (org.), Researching social life. Londres: Sage, pp. 58-82.
Bryman, A. (2004). Social research methods. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Levin, J. & Fox, J.A. (2004). Estatística para ciências humanas- São Paulo: Pearson/Prentice Hall.
Ghiglione, R. e Matalon, B. (1992). O inquérito: Teoria e prática. Oeiras: Celta.
Simmons, R. (2001). \"Questionnaires\", in Gilbert, N. (org.), Researching social life. Londres: Sage, pp. 85-104.
Teaching method
Theoretical lectures (40%);
Practical classwork (60%): exemplification and exercise solving; discussion and exercise solving by students; oral presentation and discussion of ongoing work by students.
Evaluation method
Evaluation method:
Two individual written tests in class, concerning all subjects discussed in classes (90%);
Pratcical classroom exercises. (10%).