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ASSIGNMENT:
Listen to the podcast, then write an essay (minimum 1200 words) that identifies and evaluates three flaws in the research design presented. Your essay must include the following elements:
1. Reflection (2 paragraphs):
- Reflect on the study overall and answer the following questions:
- What do you think would be a good way to study this topic?
- How can personal biases, groups, and organizations a person belongs to (in this case, the researcher) affect studies researchers undertake? What else might influence study results? How can these variables be controlled for?
- Based on your personal experiences, what sociological research methodologies (e.g., surveys, interviews, participant observation) would you choose to study this topic? Why? How would your suggestions differ from the study presented in the podcast?
- (Use Lesson 2 to answer this portion) How did you feel about the study in the podcast, the results, the discourse around it, and why?
- How have the effects of this study been helpful or harmful in the real world?
- Include a brief personal compare and contrast: Compare the researcher’s groups/organizations in the study to your own (e.g., a friend group, sports team, club, or workplace). Identify the group types, and explain how the dynamics are similar or different from the researcher or even the study participants in the podcast. How would results differ if you performed the study?
2. Research Design Analysis:
- According to the podcast, what are three flaws in the research design and its outcomes:
- One must affect validity,
- One must affect reliability
- One must affect generalizability
- Define all relevant sociological terms and concepts in your own words, but use in-text citations from course materials (cite chapter and page or section where it comes from).
3. Suggested Improvements (1 for each flaw, 1 for a compare/contrast = 4):
- Describe how each flaw impacts the study’s results.
- Suggest specific improvements to address or eliminate the flaw using your knowledge of sociological research methods from chapter 2.
Formatting, Structure, and Submission Requirements
1. Formatting:
- Typed, double-spaced, 12-point Times New Roman font.
- Include properly formatted in-text citations and a reference list for all sources (any style or format). See Course resources.
- File format: Submit as a DOCX or PDF.
2. Structure:
- Introduction (Paragraph 1)
- Body Paragraphs (paragraphs 2-6): Each focuses on one research design flaw and includes personal compare/contrast.
- Reflection (Paragraphs 7 & 8)
3. Course Resources:
- You MUST cite the following course materials to support your analysis:
- Chapter 2: Sociological Research (Lesson 1)
- Chapter 3: Culture
- Chapter 5: Socialization
- Chapter 6: Groups and Organization (Lesson 3)
- Groups, Group Dynamics, and Leadership (Lesson 3)
- Formal Organizations (Lesson 3)