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Quantitative Research Methods

Quantitative research methods in sociology involve the systematic investigation of observable relationships using mathematical and statistical techniques. This approach allows researchers to quantify social phenomena, such as income distribution or demographic characteristics, providing a clear framework to analyze and interpret data. Understanding these methods is essential for sociologists, as they help establish patterns and relationships in society, influencing policy decisions and social theories.

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1

Which of the following is an example of a nominal variable?

Gender is a nominal variable because it categorizes people into groups. Other options are incorrect because Age is not nominal because it has a clear ...

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2

In a study exploring the relationship between education level and income, researchers found a strong correlation. Which of the following statements best explains this finding with respect to correlation vs. causation and descriptive statistics?

This answer is right because it shows that while education and income are linked, one does not make the other happen. Other options are incorrect beca...

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3

What is the primary purpose of hypothesis testing in quantitative research, and which data collection method is commonly employed to achieve this?

Hypothesis testing helps researchers find out if one thing causes another. Other options are incorrect because Some might think hypothesis testing is ...

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4

In a quantitative research study, which combination of data collection methods, variable types, and inferential statistics would best allow researchers to analyze the relationship between income level (ordinal variable) and spending habits (continuous variable)?

Surveys with Likert scales help gather opinions on spending habits. Other options are incorrect because Interviews focus on personal stories, not numb...

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5

In a quantitative research study, which of the following is essential for effectively testing a hypothesis involving multiple variable types, such as independent and dependent variables?

Using different data collection methods helps gather the right information for each type of variable. Other options are incorrect because Some might t...

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6

What is the primary purpose of quantitative research methods in sociology?

Quantitative research helps us find patterns and test ideas using numbers. Other options are incorrect because Some might think this type of research ...

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7

What is the primary purpose of hypothesis testing in quantitative research?

The main goal of hypothesis testing is to see if we have enough proof to reject a starting idea called the null hypothesis. Other options are incorrec...

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8

Which of the following is a common method for data collection in quantitative research?

Surveys are a great way to gather lots of information from many people. Other options are incorrect because Interviews are more personal and often inv...

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9

In quantitative research methods, which of the following best describes the primary focus of analysis?

Quantitative research looks at numbers and statistics. Other options are incorrect because This option suggests we focus on personal feelings and expe...

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10

In quantitative research methods, the systematic investigation of observable relationships is primarily concerned with ________ using mathematical and statistical techniques.

Quantitative research focuses on numbers. Other options are incorrect because Some might think qualitative data, like opinions, is the main focus; Ane...

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11

Which statement best describes the role of quantitative research methods in sociology?

Quantitative research uses numbers and statistics to study social patterns. Other options are incorrect because This option suggests that quantitative...

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12

Which of the following statements accurately describe the characteristics of quantitative research methods in sociology? Select all that apply.

Quantitative research uses numbers and statistics to study social issues, not just stories or descriptions. Other options are incorrect because This o...

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13

Quantitative research methods are to sociology as statistical analysis is to which of the following fields?

Economics uses numbers and data to understand how money and resources work. Other options are incorrect because Literature focuses on stories and idea...

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14

A researcher is conducting a study to determine the relationship between education level and income in a specific region. Which category of quantitative research methods does this study exemplify?

This study looks at how two things are related: education and income. Other options are incorrect because Some might think this study tests a cause-an...

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15

If a researcher finds that higher levels of education are associated with higher income levels, what might be a potential underlying cause for this observed relationship?

Education helps people learn important skills. Other options are incorrect because This idea suggests that only rich people can get educated; This bel...

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16

Arrange the following steps in the process of conducting quantitative research in sociology from start to finish: A) Analyze data to identify patterns; B) Formulate a research question; C) Collect numerical data through surveys or experiments; D) Interpret results and draw conclusions.

You start by asking a question. Other options are incorrect because This option suggests collecting data before asking a question; This option puts an...

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17

A sociologist is studying the impact of income levels on educational attainment in a metropolitan area. Which quantitative research method would best help them analyze the relationship between these two variables?

Surveys collect numbers about income and education. Other options are incorrect because Interviews focus on personal stories, not numbers; Observing c...

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