Research Methods Used in Sociology and Cultural Anthropology - Essay Example

Experiments These refer to empirical studies that are designed to test relationshipsbetween variables. Experiments do test a hypothesis, i.e. an anticipated relationship between the variables. In this type of research, a researcher compares an experimental group to a control group. An experimental unit is that which receives a treatment while controls are not subject to any treatment. Random assignment of people who will carry out the research on the experimental group is done by the researcher before the research begins (Brent & Lewis, 2014).

Justification for Social Surveys Data received from social surveys are considered very valid and reliable especially when questionnaires are used to conduct the study. This is because proper sampling procedures are employed when studying the particular population. Furthermore, social surveys give room for the respondents to remain anonymous especially when the topics being studied are considered delicate. Anotherstrength of this technique is that conducting interviews can lead to a very representative sample of the population because the researchers can as well reach the respondents who cannot read and write (Covington, 2008).

Cultural AnthropologyParticipant Observation This method of research involves learning about a particular group’s way of life and beliefs through interacting with the group over a given period. The researcher encounters the group and can as well conduct interviews and discussions with the individual members of the group over the period of their interaction (Nanda & Warms, 2013).Interviewing Interviewing is a technique of collecting information that involves asking of questions to the respondents.

It includes informal interviews, which refer to unstructured normal conversations; formal interviews, which describes structured question and answer sessions that are based on predetermined questions. Informal interviews can take place at anytime and anywhere. The formal interview questions are often based on some prior knowledge of the community under study.Justification for participant observation Participant observation is a strong tool for conducting research since the observers spend most of their time in doing the research.

Due to their constant participation, the observers get time with the group to share experiences, way of life, and beliefs at a deeper level than that which any other method can achieve (Nanda & Warms, 2013). The researchers build a closer relationship with the group and this fosters good understanding and easy sharing of information.Comparison of the research methods Sociologists use various methods to study large numbers of people in a more general way. They employ various research methods that enable them gather the specific informationthat they need in a quick manner, and this process often involves a large group.

For example, social surveys focus on collecting data or gathering information about a specific phenomenon of interest. This is also similar with experimentation, which tests about a particular hypothesis. Contrary to this are the methods used by cultural anthropologists. These methods focus on small groups because these are easily manageable using the methods. Moreover, the process involves a general study of the cultures and beliefs of these people over an extended period. A good example is the participant observation, which aims at collecting general information about a particular small group over a given period.