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GCSE Sociology Revision

Research Methods

Primary and secondary methods, sampling, reliability and validity, and research ethics.

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Is sociological research just personal opinion?

Research Methods is a core part of GCSE Sociology. Revise the key concepts and common mistakes below, then lock them in with the free games.

Key concepts

Primary dataData the researcher collects themselves.
Secondary dataData already produced by others.
Quantitative dataNumbers, statistics and percentages.
Qualitative dataWords, meanings and detailed descriptions.
ValidityDoes the data really measure what it claims?
ReliabilityWould the same method give the same result again?
SampleA smaller group chosen to represent the target population.
Random sampleEveryone has an equal chance of being picked.
Stratified sampleSample mirrors key proportions, e.g. gender.
Snowball sampleEach respondent suggests the next, useful for hidden groups.
BSA CodeBritish Sociological Association ethical guidelines.
Informed consentParticipants agree after knowing the research.
Hawthorne effectSubjects change behaviour because they are watched.
Researcher biasPersonal views shaping how data is collected.
Learn Research Methods step by step

Free interactive mini-lessons: short screens, worked examples and quick checks. Pick your exam board:

Other boards:Cambridge IGCSE

Common mistakes to avoid

Questions where students often pick the tempting wrong answer — make sure you know the right one:

Is sociological research just personal opinion?✗ Yes, sociology is only opinions.   ✓ No — it uses systematic methods and evidence.
Why do sociologists worry about a sample being representative?✗ Representativeness doesn't matter in sociology.   ✓ So findings can be generalised to the wider population.

Practise Research Methods — free games

Test yourself with these quick revision games for this topic:

▶ Two Truths, One Lie▶ Reveal Race▶ Connections Grid▶ Falling Words▶ Word Web

See all 22 games in the Revision Arcade →

More GCSE Sociology topics

FamiliesEducationCrime & DevianceSocial Stratification & InequalityCulture, Identity & SocialisationSociological TheoriesMedia, Power & Politics
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