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Read Item C below and answer the question that follows - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 6 - 2017 - Paper 3
Question 6
Read Item C below and answer the question that follows. Item C Structured interviews are a relatively cheap way of studying a sample. Positivist sociologists favou... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Read Item C below and answer the question that follows - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 6 - 2017 - Paper 3
Step 1
Evaluate the advantages of using structured interviews in sociological research
Answer
Structured interviews offer several advantages in sociological research, particularly regarding reliability and efficiency.
1. Reliability of Data
Structured interviews provide a consistent framework for the researcher, which helps in obtaining reliable data. The standardized questions ensure that each participant is asked the same questions in the same way, reducing variability in responses. This aligns with the positivist approach mentioned in Item C, which values reliability in data collection for hypothesis testing.
2. Quantitative Data Collection
Another significant advantage is the ease of quantifying responses. As structured interviews often involve closed questions, the data can be easily coded and analyzed statistically. This ability to quantify responses allows for large-scale comparisons and generalizations to be made about social phenomena.
3. Efficiency in Data Gathering
Structured interviews can be quicker to administer than unstructured formats. Since the interviewer follows a specific script, they can conduct multiple interviews in a shorter period, which is advantageous for studies requiring data from a large sample. The increased efficiency also translates into reduced costs associated with data collection.
4. Clear Focus on Research Objectives
The structured format allows researchers to maintain a clear focus on the research questions. This concentrated approach helps ensure that the data collected directly addresses the hypotheses being tested, minimizing irrelevant information.
5. Easier Analysis
The uniformity of the questions makes it easier to analyze the data, as researchers can utilize statistical methods with confidence, allowing for straightforward interpretations of results that can contribute significantly to understanding social trends.
In conclusion, while critics of structured interviews argue that they lack flexibility and validity, their strengths in providing reliable, quantifiable data in an efficient manner make them a valuable tool in sociological research.