Question 1: Define what a survey is in the context of sociological research.

Answer: A survey is a research method that involves collecting data from a large group of people by asking them questions, often using questionnaires or interviews.

Question 2: List two advantages of using surveys in sociological research.

Answer: 1. They can collect data from many people quickly and efficiently. 2. They allow for standardised questions, making data easier to analyse.

Question 3: Identify and explain one potential drawback of using surveys to gather sociological data.

Answer: One drawback is that surveys may lead to biased answers if respondents give socially desirable responses rather than truthful ones.

Question 4: Describe the difference between closed-ended and open-ended questions in a survey.

Answer: Closed-ended questions offer limited response options (e.g., yes/no, multiple choice), while open-ended questions allow respondents to answer in their own words, providing more detailed information.

Question 5: Imagine you are designing a survey to find out teenagers’ opinions about social media. Write two examples of closed-ended questions you could include.

Answer: 1. Do you use social media daily? (Yes/No) 2. Which social media platform do you use most? (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Other)

Question 6: Sketch a simple layout for a questionnaire page that includes space for both closed and open-ended questions. Label the sections clearly.

Answer: A clear layout with a section for closed questions (e.g., multiple choice or yes/no) and a separate section for open-ended questions with blank lines or boxes for written responses.

Question 7: Explain why it is important to pilot a survey before distributing it widely.

Answer: Piloting helps identify confusing or biased questions, ensuring the survey gathers reliable and valid data before wider distribution.

Question 8: Suppose you have conducted a survey and collected data. What is the next step in analysing this data?

Answer: The next step is to organise and interpret the data, looking for patterns or trends that answer the research questions.

Question 9: Why is it important to ensure that your survey sample is representative of the population you are studying?

Answer: A representative sample ensures that the results accurately reflect the views or characteristics of the entire population, making the findings valid.

Question 10: Describe one ethical consideration you need to keep in mind when conducting a survey involving minors.

Answer: Ensuring informed consent from both the minors and their guardians, and maintaining confidentiality and privacy of their responses.