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1. What is the relationship between theory and research?

Theory and research are closely intertwined in the field of social science. Theory provides a framework or a set of conceptual ideas that guide and inform the process of research. It acts as a lens through which researchers can observe and understand phenomena. Research, on the other hand, involves systematic investigations aimed at testing or refining existing theories or developing new theories. It involves collecting and analyzing empirical data to gain a deeper understanding of social phenomena. Therefore, theory and research are interdependent and inform each other.

2. What are the main types of research designs used in social science research?

In social science research, there are several main types of research designs commonly used. These include experimental, correlational, and descriptive designs. Experimental designs involve manipulating independent variables and measuring their effects on dependent variables to establish cause-and-effect relationships. Correlational designs examine the relationships between two or more variables without manipulating them. Descriptive designs aim to describe and understand social phenomena in their natural settings without manipulating any variables.

3. What are the key elements of a research proposal?

A research proposal typically includes several key elements. Firstly, it begins with an introduction that provides an overview of the research problem, its significance, and the research questions or objectives. Next, it includes a literature review that summarizes previous research on the topic and identifies gaps or areas that the proposed study will address. The proposal should also outline the proposed research design and methodology, including details about participants, data collection methods, and data analysis procedures. It should also include a timeline and budget, as well as a discussion of potential ethical considerations. Finally, a research proposal should conclude with a section on the expected contributions and implications of the study.

4. What is the difference between quantitative and qualitative research?

Quantitative research and qualitative research are two main approaches to social science research. Quantitative research involves the collection and analysis of numerical data to identify patterns, relationships, and trends. It focuses on measuring variables and testing hypotheses using statistical analyses. On the other hand, qualitative research involves the collection and analysis of non-numerical data, such as interviews, observations, and textual analysis. It aims to explore and understand social phenomena in depth, focusing on the subjective experiences and meanings people ascribe to them. While quantitative research emphasizes objectivity and generalizability, qualitative research emphasizes context and rich description.

5. What ethical considerations should researchers keep in mind when conducting research with human participants?

When conducting research with human participants, researchers have a responsibility to ensure the ethical treatment and protection of participants. This includes obtaining informed consent from participants, ensuring their privacy and confidentiality, and minimizing any potential harms or risks associated with the research. Researchers should also ensure that the potential benefits of the research outweigh any potential risks and that participants are not coerced or deceived in any way. Additionally, researchers should consider equity and fairness in participant recruitment and selection, and seek approval from an ethics review board or institutional review board before conducting the research.