Data Analysis Sociology

Imagine you have a huge pile of documents in front of you, all with various types of information contained within them. How would you go about collecting relevant data and then analysing it?

This is something that researchers, including sociologists, must consider when they carry out a study or research project. It is important for sociologists to ensure that they collect and analyse data in a way which helps them meet their research aims without compromising the validity of the data.

In this topic:

• We will be looking at the definition of data analysis in sociology.
• We will consider different ways in which data can be collected, namely primary and secondary data.
• Furthermore, we will understand the difference between quantitative and qualitative data.

Let's start with the definition of data analysis.

Data analysis definition sociology

What do we actually mean by data analysis? Let's consider a simple definition.

Data analysis does not have to be complex or difficult – it is the process of simplifying data to create a summary of its findings. We can consider a basic example below.

Data analysis in the research process

It may also help to look at the stage in which data analysis happens in the research process. This is illustrated in the following diagram:

The highlighted box shows which stage of the research process we are looking at. StudySmarter Originals, Shikha Shah

When the researchers get to the data analysis stage, they begin fieldwork. Fieldwork involves gathering raw data that will be used as evidence in the research.

Gathering and collecting data can be done using multiple methods. Researchers may choose from either primary or secondary research methods, depending on the nature of their research aims.

Let's now consider primary and secondary methods of data collection.

Primary data analysis sociology

Primary data is data that is collected first-hand. It is 'original' research gathered by the researcher that can be collected using several research methods. Let's briefly consider some of these.

Surveys

Social surveys are a popular research method in sociology, market research, and government departments.

Surveys consist of pre-set questionnaires in standardised orders so that each respondent answers the same questions. They can be used to gather data on a range of topics and can include different types of questions, including 'yes or no' and multiple choice questions.

Questionnaires

Questionnaires are often postal, which means that they are sent to individual households through the post. Respondents fill out the questionnaire and post it to the designated address.

Questionnaires can sometimes include incentives to fill them out, such as gift vouchers or an entry into a prize draw. The incentives are given to encourage a higher response rate.

Interviews

There are four types of interviews:

• Structured

• Unstructured

• Semi-structured

• Group

All types of interviews have their advantages and disadvantages. They are good for collecting primary data as the researcher is directly interacting with the participant.

Longitudinal studies

Longitudinal studies are long-term research projects that study a person or group over time to track for changes. They can involve a range of primary research methods, such as interviews, observations, and surveys.

Other types of primary research methods include participant and non-participant observation.

Secondary data analysis sociology

Secondary data is data that has already been collected by someone else; it is pre-existing. A popular secondary research method used in sociology is official statistics.

Official statistics

These are statistics collected by government departments and/or agencies. In the UK, statistics are frequently published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), but any government department or agency can publish them. Another example is the NHS.

Sociologists use secondary data to inform their research.

Other secondary research methods

Alternative methods of conducting secondary research include:

• other sociological research studies

• non-official statistics

• media, e.g. newspapers

• personal documents, e.g. diaries and letters

Let's move on to consider quantitative and qualitative data.

Quantitative data analysis sociology

Quantitative data is numerical (based on numbers) in nature. It is commonly presented through:

• statistics

• bar charts

• pie charts

• correlation charts

Quantitative data can be collected using both primary and secondary research methods.

Quantitative and qualitative data generate different types of information.

Primary quantitative data

Such data can be collected using a questionnaire that consists of closed questions. In this way, researchers will be able to visualise the data in numbers; for example, how many respondents answered 'yes' to a particular question.

Secondary quantitative data

Such data can be collected using official statistics, such as statistical data on crime rates or health conditions.

Qualitative data analysis sociology

Qualitative data is usually in verbal or visual form. It is non-numerical and can be presented through:

• quotes

• statements

• descriptions

• photos or videos

Qualitative data can also be collected using both primary and secondary research methods.

Primary qualitative data

This type of data can be collected using unstructured interviews, which provide in-depth answers from the participants. Observations are another way to gain primary qualitative data.

Secondary qualitative data

Secondary qualitative data can be collected using newspaper articles or an individual's diary entries.