Scientific Method Matrix
Research is a primary component of sociology. Valid and relevant sociological research is dependent upon a commitment to applying the scientific method in a systematic and organized way in order to ensure maximum objectivity and consistency in research. Complete the following matrix based on a social problem of your choice. The matrix will serve as a guide for creating a preliminary plan for the basic steps of the scientific method.
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Scientific Method Matrix * Social problem * * Identify a social problem of your choice. | * Drugs in America | * Problem definitionA problem statement is often written as a research question. Limit the problem statement to one sentence. Example: Is going to college worth the time and money? * | * Why do so many Americans use drugs? | Operational definition Develop operational definitions for two abstract concepts in the problem statement that you believe are measurable and subject to change under different conditions. Create the operational definitions so another researcher can understand and assess your definition of the abstract concepts. Limit your definitions to one sentence each.Example: For purposes of this study, schooling is defined as the number of completed grade levels in public education institutions. For purposes of this study, pay off is defined as an increase in income level. * | * More than 22 million Americans age 12 and older - nearly 9% of the U.S. population - use illegal drugs, according to the government’s 2010 National Survey on Drug Use and Health * More than 23 million Americans age 12 and older needed some sort of treatment for drug or alcohol use problems, according to the 2010 study. But only 2.6 million people got that treatment. Of the people who didn’t get treatment, most indicated in the survey that they did not feel they need it.