Class Sociological Research Methods and Techniques

This curricular unity intends to promote analytical and methodological skills in sociological field. The main goal is to involve students in a learning process about the selection and construction of the object study (theoretical problem, analytical model, observation and delimitation of the units of analysis) and also about methods and techniques (qualitative and quantitative) adequate to their research projects.

1- Scientific methods and techniques in Sociology

2- Stages of sociological research

3- Qualitative/intensive methods and techniques

3.1. Case studies

3.2. Different types of interviews and focus groups

3.3. Content analysis

3.4 Biographical method and sociological portraits

3.5 Ethnographic methods

3.6. Direct and participant observation

3.7.Visual methods

4 - Quantitative/extensive methods and techniques 

4.1.  Universe and the construction of the sample

4.2 Main sampling techniques in extensive/quantitative research

4.3 Main steps of the construction of the questionnaire

4.4 Application of the questionnaire

4.5. Data analysis and treatment

5. Methodological triangulation: application of mixed methods
 

Fieldwork exercise with students (collecting photos, carrying out exploratory interviews and elaboration of a field diary during a visit to a Lisbon neighborhood).

Albarello, L., Digneffe., F., Hiernaux, J.P., Maroy, C., Ruquoy, D., & Saint- Georges, P. (1997). Práticas e métodos de investigação em ciências sociais. Gradiva.

Bryman, A. (2016). Social research methods. Oxford university press.

Eco, U. (1984). Como se faz uma tese em Ciências Humanas.  (3.ª ed.). Editorial Presença.

Ghiglione, R., & Matalon, B. (1992). O Inquérito - Teoria e prática. Celta.

Quivy, R., & Campenhoudt, L. (1998). Manual de investigação em Ciências Sociais (2.ª ed.). Gradiva.

Silva, A.S., & Pinto, J. M. (orgs.). (1986). Metodologia das Ciências Sociais. Afrontamento.