Give Methods a Chance, chs. 1-2
Chapter 1: Interviews and Telling a Good Story
Summary: Chapter 1 focuses more on the interviews as a research method and helps explain how sociologists use the methods to tell meaningful and accurate stories about the people lives. Kyle and Sarah argue that the interviews are powerful because it allow the researches to hear directly from individuals about either their experiences, beliefs, and perspectives.
Key Terms: Ethnographic- relating to the scientific description of peoples and cultures with their customs, habits, and mutual differences. Examination- a formal, detailed inspection, investigation, or testing process used to evaluate the condition, quality or knowledge of someone or something. Recruiting- the process of employing new people to work for a company or organization.
Discussion Points: Ethnographic
Quotation: “Studying a sensitive topic can make recruitment difficult”(pg.11). “In contrast to journalists, a social scientist uses stories to make broader connections”(pg. 14).
“Muddiest Point(s)”:Interviews
Chapter 2: Getting Focus Groups Right
Summary: Chapter 2 discuss how focus groups work as a research method and how they do them. A focus group is a guided discussion with a small group of people about certain topics. Instead of the researchers interviewing individuals one-on-one, researchers study how people talk more and more.
Key Terms: Consensus- a general agreement. Methodological- relating to the system of methods used in a particular area of study or activity. Mundane- ordinary, commonplace, and uninteresting
Discussion Points: Consensus
Quotation: ” A focus group seems like a rather straightforward undertaking: ask a few questions, let the group talk” (pg. 18). “Focus groups provide a semistructured setting for people to respond to questions, share their views, and engage in discussion” (pg. 15)
