When planning to do social research, it is better to:
2014
When planning to do social research, it is better to:
Answer: C. be familiar with literature on the topic — ConceptSound research planning begins by locating a proposed study within existing knowledge. A literature review identifies established findings, theories,…
- A.
approach the topic with an open mind
- B.
do a pilot study before getting stuck into it
- C.
be familiar with literature on the topic
- D.
forget about theory because this is a very practical undertaking
Attempted by 2 students.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Concept
Sound research planning begins by locating a proposed study within existing knowledge.
A literature review identifies established findings, theories, debates, and gaps; these guide the research question and the evidence the study must collect.
Application
For this item, becoming familiar with literature on the topic is the planning activity that clarifies what is already known and what remains to be investigated.
Contrast and cross-check
Approaching a topic with an open mind is valuable throughout research, especially when interpreting evidence, but it does not by itself define the problem or evidence needs.
Conducting a pilot study tests feasibility, procedures, or instruments after a preliminary question and design have been framed.
Forgetting theory removes the conceptual lens used to formulate questions and interpret observations.
The research-process sequence is: review literature, frame the questions and design, pilot the procedures, and then collect and interpret data.
Result
Therefore, the best planning choice is to be familiar with literature on the topic.