Methodological approaches to research

Methodological approaches to research form the backbone of sociological investigation. This topic explores the different ways sociologists gather and analyse data about society, including quantitative methods (e.g., surveys, experiments) and qualitative methods (e.g., interviews, participant observation). Understanding these approaches is crucial because they shape the validity, reliability, and representativeness of sociological findings. You will learn about the theoretical underpinnings of each method, such as positivism (favouring objective, numerical data) and interpretivism (prioritising subjective meanings and experiences).

In the WJEC A-Level Sociology specification, this topic is essential for both the research methods component and for evaluating studies across all modules. You will need to critically assess the strengths and limitations of different methods, considering practical, ethical, and theoretical issues. Mastery of this topic enables you to design your own research and to deconstruct the methods used in classic and contemporary sociological studies, such as those by Durkheim, Willis, or Oakley.

This topic also connects to broader debates in sociology about the nature of social reality and the role of the researcher. By understanding methodological approaches, you can appreciate why sociologists disagree about how best to study society and how these disagreements reflect deeper philosophical positions. This knowledge is vital for achieving high marks in exams, where you are expected to evaluate methods in context and justify your choices.