SO 300 – Research Methods Discussion
Instructions
For this discussion, you get to engage in data gathering to get a sense of the methods of this unit.
· Present the following:
o A brief statement of your method, research questions, and your sources of data (be as specific as possible)
o A brief statement of the strengths and weaknesses of your inquiry.
o A summary PowerPoint to support your qualitative proposal.
Using Comparative Analysis
To utilize this method, you will need to pick a country with a population of 5 to 50 million and about which you know very little.
1. First, develop some background knowledge by finding out about the country’s:
o history,
o conflicts,
o internal social divisions,
o economy,
o family traditions,
o culture,
o form of government,
o religious beliefs,
o holidays
2. Second, after you have a basic understanding of the country, pick one feature about it (e.g., marriage practices, school system) and make a comparison with your home culture. Develop a list of at least 10 similarities and/or differences. Draw on at least three different sources to develop your comparison list.
1. Consider using:
CIA Factbook (Links to an external site.)
National Historical Geographical Information Systems (Links to an external site.)
Note: You are not expected to formulate, collect data, analyze it, and write it up for this week!
