Depending on the source, the information may be secondary or primary.In the second case, the information obtained in the survey (observations) from first hand.In the first case, the source - already published material.
sociological data collection methods include: survey, observation, analysis of documents.
Last reception indicates the use of any information, recorded in the text (handwritten or typed), sound recording, photography, film, video.This method involves the analysis of documents (content analysis) and used in the study of information created in various areas of social communication.All documents are divided into four types.The first group includes written materials - archival information, press materials, personal documentation.The second type are iconographic documents.These include painting, video, photography.The next type is the statistical documents.It provides information in digital form.By the fourth and last type of documents include phonetic data.They are recording.
Observation and poll - quite common methods of data collection.
Note that for sufficiently wide application of these methods (alone) are not essential in the investigation.Often the data collection methods used in the aggregate.
One of the advantages of observation as research methods, is the availability of direct personal contact with researchers objects or phenomena.Sociological observation is carried out in natural conditions for the studied subject.Thus the researcher is able to get primary information.During the study of the phenomena being registered.
Depending on the degree to which the researcher is involved in the process, release, and included a simple observation.In the second case, the researcher records all "by" not taking part in the ongoing phenomenon or activity of the study group.
sociological observation (in contrast to the traditional, everyday) has clearly defined goals and objectives.A characteristic feature of this method is a direct indication of the presence of the object of study, thoughtful way to transmit information, and the methods of processing and interpretation of the results.
Interviews and surveys - methods of gathering information by the mass survey.They allow you to quickly get the primary information from a great number of people.
The survey referred to such a method in which the researcher (a sociologist) goes directly to the respondents with certain issues.This method is used in cases when it is necessary to obtain information on the subjective state of people, motivation, behavior, attitude to events, opinions, intentions, needs and so on.
Questionnaires and interviews, as a rule, retain the anonymity of respondents.Applying these methods of gathering information, researchers pay attention to the respondents to the absence of any details that could identify them.Thus, people can be assured that their participation in the survey will not have negative consequences.
These are the main methods of gathering information.
To analyze interpersonal (intra) relationships in small groups applied sociometry.This technique reveals the degree of separation or unity members to determine their position in terms of the antipathies or sympathies.In addition to identifying leaders and outsiders, this method helps to establish separate sub-groups within the group, with its informal leaders.
