I. Chapter Summary
This chapter introduces students to the tools and techniques used in sociological research. It explores how sociologists collect, analyze, and interpret data to understand social phenomena. Students learn the importance of objectivity, ethics, and critical inquiry in conducting research. The chapter outlines both qualitative and quantitative methods, including surveys, interviews, observations, case studies, and content analysis.
By bridging theory and real-world application, this chapter emphasizes that sociology is not only theoretical but also empirical—based on evidence. It trains students in the scientific process of social investigation, fostering a deeper appreciation of how sociological knowledge is constructed.
II. Key Concepts Covered
| Concept | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Sociological Research | Systematic process of gathering and analyzing information about society. |
| Objectivity | Remaining neutral and unbiased during research. |
| Qualitative Methods | Focus on detailed, non-numerical data (e.g., interviews, observations). |
| Quantitative Methods | Involve measurable data (e.g., surveys, statistics). |
| Survey | Structured method of gathering data from a large number of people. |
| Interview | Verbal, often face-to-face data collection technique. |
| Participant Observation | Researcher becomes part of the group being studied. |
| Case Study | In-depth investigation of a single unit (person, group, institution). |
| Ethics in Research | Ensuring honesty, confidentiality, and informed consent during research. |
| Sampling | Selecting a representative group from a population for research. |
III. Important Questions
(A). Multiple Choice Questions (1 Mark)
Q1. Which of the following is a qualitative research method?
a) Statistical survey
✅ b) Participant observation
c) Sampling
d) Questionnaire
(PYQ 2020)
Q2. The process of choosing a smaller group from a larger population is called:
a) Interviewing
b) Hypothesis testing
✅ c) Sampling
d) Analysis
Q3. A sociologist collecting responses using a questionnaire is using:
a) Observation
✅ b) Survey method
c) Case study
d) Interview
Q4. Which one of the following is not a feature of ethical research?
a) Informed consent
✅ b) Fabricating data
c) Confidentiality
d) Avoiding harm to participants
(B). Short Answer Questions (2/3 Marks)
What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative research methods? (PYQ 2021)
Define participant observation with an example.
Why is objectivity important in sociological research? (PYQ 2020)
List any two ethical principles in social research.
(C). Long Answer Questions (5 Marks)
Explain various methods used in sociological research with suitable examples. (PYQ 2022)
Discuss the significance of objectivity and ethics in doing sociology.
Compare and contrast survey and interview as research techniques.
Describe the steps involved in conducting a case study.
(D). HOTS (Higher Order Thinking Skills) Questions
Should a sociologist ever participate in a protest or movement they are studying? Justify your answer with ethical reasoning.
If given a chance to research student stress in your school, which method would you choose and why?
IV. Key Formulas/Concepts
There are no mathematical formulas in this chapter, but here are key definitions and examples:
| Concept | Definition / Example |
|---|---|
| Survey | Structured questionnaire to collect data (e.g., lifestyle survey of 500 students). |
| Case Study | In-depth study of one school to understand exam stress. |
| Participant Observation | Joining a religious ceremony to study its social role. |
| Ethical Research | Not revealing participants’ identities; taking their permission. |
V. Deleted Portions (CBSE 2025–2026)
No portions have been deleted from this chapter as per the rationalized NCERT textbooks.
(Source: ncert.nic.in)
VI. Chapter-Wise Marks Bifurcation (Estimated – CBSE 2025–2026)
| Unit/Chapter | Estimated Marks | Type of Questions Typically Asked |
|---|---|---|
| Chapter 5: Doing Sociology – Research Methods | 5–6 Marks | MCQs, Short Answer, Long Answer, HOTS |
VII. Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
| Year | Marks | Question |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 5 | Explain various research methods used by sociologists. |
| 2021 | 3 | Differentiate between qualitative and quantitative methods. |
| 2020 | 2 | What is objectivity in research? |
| 2019 | 5 | Discuss the ethical concerns a sociologist must keep in mind while researching. |
VIII. Real-World Application Examples to Connect with Topics
School Survey: Measuring students’ screen time using questionnaires.
Media Analysis: Studying gender representation in TV ads using content analysis.
Social Activism: Observing community health practices through participant observation.
Interview Method: Recording personal stories of migrant workers for qualitative insights.
IX. Student Tips & Strategies for Success
Time Management
Allocate 1–2 days to understand each research method with an example.
Make a concept table for comparison (e.g., survey vs interview).
Exam Preparation
Practice writing answers with real-life examples.
Use case studies or school scenarios in your answers to gain extra marks.
Stress Management
Use roleplay to understand interviews or data collection techniques.
Watch short documentaries or classroom activities involving surveys.
X. Career Guidance & Exploration
For Classes 11–12:
Fields: Sociology, Journalism, Market Research, Public Policy, Data Analytics.
Exams: CUET (UG), UGC-NET (Sociology), UPSC (optional), Psychology/Sociology Olympiads.
Top Institutions: Delhi University, TISS, JNU, Ashoka University, National Institute of Advanced Studies.
XI. Important Notes
Always cite the source and respect confidentiality in real-world data collection.
Learn one example of each method—it will help in long answers.
Apply research techniques to school/community observations for better understanding.