Effects of Economic Trend on Each Social Class - Research Proposal Example

? Effects of Economic Trend on Each Social CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY This chapter entails the process by whichthe research question will be addressed; that is: how economic trends affects the various social classes. It also covers the sample size, procedure for data collection and the procedure for data analysis. Sociological research data can be accessed through two methods; qualitative research and quantitative research (Williams, Stacey & Carl. 2005). In this case, a quantitative approach will be applied in conducting the research. The quantitative approach is more appropriate for a sociological research given that it creates some sense of validity, reliability and ability to make a comparison with previously collected data (Duncan & Magnuson. 2003). The benefits of using quantitative analysis in this research are mainly based on the ability to collect large volumes of numerical data from a large sample size. Quantitative analysis applies precise and cost-effective data collection techniques (Antonisamy, Solomon & Prasanna, 2010). In addition, it can enable replication and generalization of collected information from a sample to achieve results on the population. Replication of the initial study can be conducted for the purpose of data accuracy in consideration to change in time. It also provides, continuous and timely data collection (Antonisamy, Solomon & Prasanna, 2010). Moreover, quantitative research presents the information collected into statistical data this facilitates easy interpretation and comparison to previously conducted research (Antonisamy, Solomon & Prasanna, 2010). A sampling technique will be used to supplement the quantitative method. In order to address the research question, sampling will cover the collection of economic data versus the social data. Given that the socio-economic sector is quit broad, a stratified random sampling technique will be applied to facilitate data collection from the economic and the social sector independently (Atkinson & Micklewright, 1992). The main advantage of applying stratified sampling technique in this research relies on the fact that it produces accurate and unbiased results and conclusions (Atkinson & Micklewright, 1992). As a result of the detailed interest in the sub-groups; surveys conducted via stratified sampling, often provide data that significantly represent the entire population. It is therefore, the best means to obtain outcomes that will show the diversity of the social classes in question (Atkinson & Micklewright, 1992). The social class will be divided into two categories; below poverty level and above poverty level. Individuals below poverty level live on at most a dollar each day (Thompson & Joseph, 2005). Questionnaires will be distributed equally to both the social and economic categories. In total 200 questionnaires will be distributed. The effects of economic trends on social class will be measured based on per capita income in relation to household expenditure for each class in the past 10 years (Freudenberg, 2006). The level of unemployment will also be compared to economic trends during this period. This paper will also compare economic trends in relation to gender issues; for instance has economic trends increased or decrease gender equality (Huston et al., 2005). Economic Data Sources To analyze employment, income and economic trends, data will be collected from the central statistical offices and the ministry of economic and financial planning. Other sources will include the core donor agencies, central bank, and commercial banks (Beeghley, 2004). The center for social and economic development at the University of Wisconsin will provide data for economic analysis (Thompson & Joseph, 2005). Information concerning employment and income will be provided by the U.S census Bureau. Further information relating to wages and employment will be gathered from the Bureau of labor statistics (Duncan & Magnuson. 2003). In this category, respondents will be required to answer basic questions relating to the structure of the economy from regional and a nationwide perspective. A brief explanation on how the economy operates will also be essential; for instance whether the economy is burdened with debt, whether it relies heavily on donors and the commodities that sustain it. This sector will also seek clarification on trends relating to unemployment, education levels, skill profile, gender and age for the past ten years (Williams, Stacey & Carl. 2005). The Gini coefficient will be used to indicate the distribution in income; this will facilitate a clear distinction between the relatively poor and the relatively rich members of the society (Beeghley, 2004). Gini coefficient, or Gini index, is defined as a statistical measurement of the relative dispersion of a resource in an entire a population (Yitzhaki & Schechtman, 2013). In most cases, it is used to show the level of equality or inequality in relation to income and asset distribution. The coefficient ranges from zero values to one; a perfectly equitable distribution is indicated by the value zero. Gini coefficient's main advantage lies on the fact that it measures inequality through a ratio analysis (Yitzhaki & Schechtman, 2013). It is therefore, easy to interpret; it does not necessitate the citation of statistical means or medians that do not represent the entire population; for instance, the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) or per capita income. For this reason, it simplifies the process of income comparison among the social classes (Yitzhaki & Schechtman, 2013). Social Data Collection In collecting social data, an investigation on households, gender, social differentiation, civil society groups and special social groups will be conducted. Though it could prove difficult to gather original information, conclusions made will be more reliable if face-to-face interviews and focused group approached are applied in the data collection process (Shukla, 2010). International agencies are also effective in providing data concerning society that is not easily available (Daniel & Thompson, 1997). Questions asked will include Monthly household expenditure in relation to monthly ten years; the particular social class, in which the individuals’ know they belong, and more (Williams, Stacey, & Carl, 2005). All the questions for both sectors will be addressed in a well structured questionnaire: the respondents will be assured that all the information they provide will be handled with utmost confidentiality (Thompson & Joseph, 2005). The questionnaires will be distributed via internet using face book as a social site. The participants will have one week to fill and resend the questionnaires. To enable above par response, I will send regular emails to the participants reminding them to fill the questionnaire before the due date (Micheletto, 2011). To curb issues relating to falls information, I will assure the respondents that their identity will remain anonymous hence they will find it unnecessary to falsify their response. Data Analysis In this research, the dependent variables are the social factors; an individual’s household expenditure is dependent upon his income level as influenced by the economic trends (Williams, Stacey & Cart, 2005). Depression in the economy my result to unemployment mainly affects individuals with a given ethnic background (Thompson & Joseph, 2005). This clearly states that ethnic background is the dependent variable. Income levels vary depending on gender; gender is the dependent variable (Daniel & Thompson, 1997). Therefore, the economic factors; income level and unemployment are independent From the above diagram, it can be stated that economic trends have a direct impact on poverty level, gender inequality, and household status as some of the factor that determine social classes (Thomas, and Johansson. 2008). In the case of depression, the poverty level in the society tends to increase, and vice-versa occurs in cases of recession. Expenditure in households tends to decrease especially in the cases of the lower class and middle class due to reduction in income (Thompson & Joseph, 2005). To ensure the accuracy the data collected will be analyzed using the statistical package for social science software. Further, to demonstrate whether there is a relationship between economic trends and social classes a correlation analysis formula will be applied. The correlation coefficient determines the relationship between two variables; it determines whether their relationship is strong or weak (Thomas & Johansson. 2008). The coefficient ranges from positive one to negative one. Positive one reflects a strong relationship between the variables; negative one reflects a weak relationship between the variables (Thomas & Johansson. 2008). The following formula will be to determine the correlation; where economic trends as the independent variable will be represented by ‘y’ and social classes as the dependent variable will be presented by variable ‘x’ Where: r= correlation coefficient n=sample population From the previous research finding, I in can anticipate that the correlation coefficient will be positive; Indicating a strong relationship between economic trends and social classes (Duncan & Magnuson, 2003). Appendix 1: Questionnaire Introduction This questionnaire seeks to investigate the effects of economic trends on social classes. I assure that any information provided will be handled with confidentiality. Your identity will remain anonymous to facilitate sincere response. Your response will be highly appreciated. Thanks for your participation. Please mark where appropriate 1. DEMOGRAFIC FACTORS 1.1 Gender: Male Female 1.2 education level: High school Undergraduates Masters Illiterate 1.3 members in household 1-3 4-6 7-10 Above 10 2. SOCIAL STATUS: High class Middle class Low class 2.1 Has the quality of life improved in the past 10 years? Yes, No 2.2 Explain your answer in 2.1 above 2.3 What aspects in the society would you change to facilitate economic stability? Please explain 3.0 ECONOMIC FACTORS: 3.0 Unemployment rate is high within my social class as a result of economic trends Strongly agree Agree Disagree Strongly disagree 3.1 What is your income level? Average maximum minimum 3.2 Economic trends change your social class, Doesn’t it? Yes, No 3.3 What kind issues are people within your class currently facing as a result of economic trends? Please explain References Antonisamy, B., Solomon, C., & Prasanna, S. P. (2010). Biostatistics: Principles and practice. New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill Education. Atkinson, A. B., & Micklewright, J. (1992). Economic transformation in Eastern Europe and distributionn of income Cambridge u.a: Univ. Press. Beeghley, L. (2004). The Structure of Social Stratification in the United States New York, NY: Pearson. Daniel, B., & Thompson, P. (1997). Pathways to Social Class: A Quantitative Approach to Social Mobility. New York: Clarendon Press. Duncan, G., J., & Magnuson, K., A. (2003). Off with Hollingshead: Socioeconomic resources, Parenting and child development. In Bornstein MH, Bradley RH, editors. Socioeconomic status, parenting, and child development. Mahwah, NJ: Erlbaum. Huston, A. C., Duncan, G. J., McLoyd V.C.,Crosby D. A., Ripke, M. N., Weisner, T. S., & Eldred, C. A. (2005). Impacts on children of a policy to promote employment and reduce poverty for low-income parents: New Hope after 5 years. Developmental Psychology; 41:902–918. Micheletto, L. (2011). Optimal Nonlinear Redistributive Taxation and Public Good Provision in an Economy with Veblen Effects. 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