The Layman's Guide to Social Research Methods

Introduction:
Understanding the basics of social research methods can, at times, feel as if one is walking a very fine line between complete comprehension and abysmal failure. The terminology is complex, the concepts highly interrelated, and as we all know, every little detail matters when it comes to a successful thesis or dissertation. As such, I decided a sort of "cliff notes" to my experience in two good courses on this topic may be useful (if not amusing) to others who are in the same position as I am - a weary eyed student about to begin a dissertation. It is, as you know a daunting task filled with both anticipation and a lot of fear.

Contents:This web page provides an overview of the key elements of social research methods and is comprised of four different sections for your use. The first section is my attempt to explain (in English) the primary differences between reliability and validity. This section includes a discussion of threats to many types of validity - as all Cornell students in Bill Trochim's (check out his Center for Social Research Methods) classes have been brainwashed to obsess about them (but we know it is for our own good). In addition, the second section provides a brief discussion on two fundamental ways to increase the strength of your analysis - statistical power, and research design. I've also compiled a glossary of some of the terminology that we must face (and know) to appear credible as fledgling social scientists. Finally, I've tried to pool together some resources I have gathered over the last two years - both printed materials and additional web sites that may be helpful in understanding these concepts.

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I hope this page helps you in your quest for understanding. If, at the very least, you know you are not alone in your struggles, then I have succeeded somewhat!

Please e-mail Laura Colosi with any comments or questions.