(a) Explain why it is dangerous to review literature without having a reasonable specific area

of what you want to study

In social sciences research, conducting a literature review holds immense significance as it helps
to identify gaps in existing knowledge, establish the context for a study, and support the
development of research questions or hypotheses. However, it is essential to approach this
process with a reasonable specific area in mind, as failure to do so can be extremely dangerous.
This essay aims to explain why it is perilous to review literature without having a clear and
focused research area.

Lack of Direction:

One of the primary dangers of conducting a literature review without a specific area is the lack of
direction it brings. Without a clear research focus, scholars may find themselves overwhelmed
with an extensive array of information, making it challenging to identify relevant studies. This
lack of direction can lead to wasted time and effort, resulting in a superficial understanding of
the research topic.

Inability to Identify Gaps:

By not having a reasonable specific area, researchers may struggle to identify gaps in the existing
literature. Identifying these gaps is crucial as it allows researchers to contribute to the field by
addressing unanswered questions or exploring underexplored areas. Without a specific area, it
becomes difficult to discern what has already been studied extensively and what needs further
investigation.

Limited Scope:
Another danger of not having a specific area in mind is the risk of having a broad and unfocused
literature review. A comprehensive review that encompasses various subfields may lack depth
and fail to provide a comprehensive analysis of the chosen research area. This can lead to a
superficial understanding of the topic and hinder the development of a well-rounded research
study.

Inaccurate Representation:

Without a reasonable specific area, researchers may unintentionally misrepresent the existing
literature. By reviewing studies that are not directly relevant to the research topic, scholars may
cite outdated or unrelated information, resulting in inaccurate representation of the state of
knowledge in the field. This can undermine the credibility of the research and hinder its
contribution to the existing body of knowledge.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, it is crucial to approach literature review in social sciences research with a

reasonable specific area in mind. Failure to do so can lead to a lack of direction, an inability to
identify gaps, a limited scope, and inaccurate representation of the existing literature. By having
a clear focus, researchers can conduct a comprehensive and meaningful review that contributes
to the field's knowledge and aids in the development of a well-rounded research study.

(b) What are the four steps involved in conducting a literature review

A literature review is an essential component of any academic research paper as it provides a

comprehensive analysis of existing literature relevant to the research topic. In the field of social
sciences, conducting a literature review involves a systematic and rigorous process to ensure a
thorough understanding of the research area. This essay will outline the four key steps involved
in conducting a literature review for a social sciences class.

Step 1: Defining the Research Question

The first step in conducting a literature review is to define the research question or topic of
interest. This involves narrowing down the focus to a specific area within the social sciences and
formulating a clear and concise research question. The research question should be broad enough
to allow for a comprehensive review of the literature but specific enough to guide the research
process.

Step 2: Searching for Relevant Literature

Once the research question is defined, the next step is to search for relevant literature. This
involves conducting a systematic search of various academic databases, such as PubMed,
JSTOR, or Google Scholar, using keywords and Boolean operators to refine the search results. It
is important to include both published and unpublished sources, such as peer-reviewed journal
articles, books, dissertations, and conference papers, to ensure a comprehensive review of the
literature.

Step 3: Evaluating and Analyzing the Literature

After gathering the relevant literature, the next step is to evaluate and analyze the selected
sources. This involves critically assessing the quality, credibility, and relevance of each source to
determine its significance for the research question. The literature should be analyzed
thematically, identifying key concepts, theories, and methodologies used in previous studies. It is
crucial to identify any gaps, inconsistencies, or controversies in the literature that the research
aims to address.

Step 4: Synthesizing and Writing the Literature Review

The final step in conducting a literature review is to synthesize the findings and write the review.
This involves organizing the literature thematically or chronologically and presenting a coherent
and logical narrative of the existing knowledge on the research topic. The literature review
should highlight the key findings, debates, and gaps in the literature, providing a foundation for
the research study. Proper citation and referencing of all sources used in the review are essential
to acknowledge the original authors and avoid plagiarism.

Conclusion:

Conducting a literature review in the social sciences involves a systematic and rigorous process
that requires defining the research question, searching for relevant literature, evaluating and
analyzing the literature, and synthesizing and writing the review. By following these four steps,
researchers can ensure a comprehensive and robust literature review that forms the basis for their
own research study.

(c) List three (3) references system that are used when writing the literature review

Writing a literature review is an essential part of conducting research in the field of Social
Sciences. It involves summarizing, analyzing, and evaluating the existing scholarly works
relevant to a specific topic. When writing a literature review, it is crucial to follow a reference
system to provide proper citations and acknowledgments to the original authors. This essay will
discuss three commonly used reference systems in the Social Sciences literature reviews.

The first reference system is the American Psychological Association (APA) style. APA style is
widely used in the Social Sciences and provides guidelines for formatting in-text citations and
references. According to the APA Style Blog (n.d.), in-text citations should include the author's
last name and year of publication. For example, (Smith, 2010). The references should be listed
alphabetically by the authors' last names, providing detailed information about the source,
including the title, publication year, journal name, and page numbers.

Another commonly used reference system is the Modern Language Association (MLA) style.
Although primarily used in the humanities, it is also applicable to Social Sciences literature
reviews. In MLA style, in-text citations include the author's last name and page number. For
example, (Smith 25). The references are listed alphabetically by the authors' last names,
providing similar information as APA style but with some variations in formatting.

The third reference system is the Chicago Manual of Style (CMS), which is widely used in
historical and social sciences research. CMS uses the author-date citation system for in-text
citations, similar to APA style. The references are listed in a bibliography rather than a reference
list. The bibliography includes detailed information about the source, such as the author's name,
publication year, title, place of publication, and publisher.

In conclusion, when writing a literature review in the Social Sciences, it is essential to follow a
reference system to provide accurate citations and references for the original sources. The APA,
MLA, and CMS are three commonly used reference systems. Each system has its own guidelines
for in-text citations and reference formatting, so it is crucial to follow the specific style required
by the instructor or the journal. By using the appropriate reference system, researchers can
ensure the credibility and integrity of their literature review.

(c) List down three (3) references management system

1. EndNote

EndNote is a widely used reference management system that is commonly employed by

researchers in the social sciences field. It provides a comprehensive platform for organizing and
managing references, as well as generating citations and bibliographies. EndNote allows users to
import and store references from various sources, such as databases, online libraries, and
websites. The software also enables users to create specific libraries for different research
projects, making it easier to categorize and locate references. Additionally, EndNote integrates
with word processing software, allowing users to insert citations directly into their papers and
automatically generate bibliographies in various citation styles, including APA, MLA, and
Chicago. EndNote facilitates collaboration among researchers by enabling them to share libraries
and references with colleagues. This feature is particularly useful for social scientists who often
work in teams and need to collaborate on research projects.

2. Mendeley

Mendeley is another popular reference management system widely used in the social sciences. It
offers a range of features designed to facilitate the organization and citation of references.
Mendeley allows users to import references from various sources, including online databases,
websites, and PDF files. The software automatically extracts metadata from imported references,
making it easier to search and categorize them. Mendeley also provides a web-based platform
that allows users to access their reference libraries from any device with an internet connection.
The platform supports collaboration by enabling users to share references and annotations with
colleagues. Mendeley integrates with word processing software, allowing users to insert citations
and generate bibliographies in different citation styles. Additionally, Mendeley offers a feature
called "Mendeley Suggest," which suggests relevant articles based on the user's library and
research interests, helping social scientists stay up to date with the latest research in their field.
3. Zotero

Zotero is a free and open-source reference management system that is widely used by social
scientists for organizing and citing references. It offers a range of features that make it a valuable
tool for researchers in the social sciences field. Zotero allows users to import references from
various sources, including library catalogs, databases, and websites. The software automatically
extracts metadata from imported references, making it easier to organize and search for specific
references. Zotero also provides a web-based platform that allows users to access their reference
libraries from any device. Like other reference management systems, Zotero integrates with
word processing software, enabling users to insert citations and generate bibliographies in
different citation styles. Additionally, Zotero offers a feature called "Zotero Groups," which
allows users to collaborate with colleagues by sharing references, notes, and documents. This
feature is particularly useful for social scientists working on collaborative research projects.

In conclusion, reference management systems such as EndNote, Mendeley, and Zotero are
valuable tools for social scientists. These systems provide a range of features that facilitate the
organization, citation, and collaboration of references, making the research process more
efficient and streamlined. Researchers in the social sciences can benefit greatly from utilizing
these reference management systems in their academic work.

(a) List down five (5) stages involved in the process of sampling to collect primary data

Sampling is a crucial step in the research process, particularly in the social sciences, as it enables
researchers to collect primary data from a subset of individuals or groups that represent the larger
population of interest. This paper aims to discuss the five stages involved in the process of
sampling for collecting primary data in social sciences.

Stage 1: Define the Population:

The first stage in the sampling process is to define the population of interest. This includes
specifying the characteristics, demographics, and other relevant attributes of the target
population. For example, if the research aims to study the opinions of college students about
mental health, the population would be defined as college students from a particular institution or
a specific age group.

Stage 2: Select a Sampling Technique:

After defining the population, the next stage involves selecting an appropriate sampling
technique. Commonly used techniques in social sciences include random sampling, stratified
sampling, cluster sampling, and convenience sampling. Each technique has its own advantages
and limitations, and the choice depends on the research objectives and available resources.

Stage 3: Determine Sample Size:

Determining the appropriate sample size is a critical stage in the sampling process. It involves
estimating the number of participants required to obtain valid and reliable results. Factors such as
the desired level of precision, statistical power, and budget constraints influence the
determination of the sample size.

Stage 4: Select the Sample:

Once the sample size is determined, the actual selection of participants or groups from the
population takes place. This stage involves applying the chosen sampling technique to select the
sample. For example, in random sampling, each member of the population has an equal chance
of being selected, while in stratified sampling, the population is divided into subgroups, and
participants are selected from each subgroup.

Stage 5: Collect Primary Data:

The final stage of the sampling process is to collect primary data from the selected sample. This
can be done through various methods such as interviews, surveys, observations, or experiments.
It is essential to ensure that the data collection process maintains ethical standards and minimizes
biases to obtain accurate and reliable information.

In conclusion, the process of sampling in social sciences involves five stages: defining the
population, selecting a sampling technique, determining the sample size, selecting the sample,
and collecting primary data. Each stage plays a crucial role in ensuring the representativeness
and validity of the collected data. Researchers must carefully consider each stage to obtain
meaningful results that contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the social sciences.

(b) What are the advantages and disadvantages of probability sampling?

Probability sampling is a widely used method in social sciences research that allows researchers
to draw valid inferences about a target population. This paper aims to analyze the advantages and
disadvantages of probability sampling in social sciences research.

Advantages of Probability Sampling:

1. Representative Sample:

One of the main advantages of probability sampling is that it allows researchers to obtain a
representative sample from the target population. By using random selection methods, such as
simple random sampling or stratified random sampling, researchers ensure that each member of
the population has an equal chance of being included in the sample. This increases the
generalizability of the findings to the larger population.

2. Statistical Inference:

Probability sampling provides a solid foundation for making statistical inferences about the
population based on the sample data. The use of randomization techniques enables researchers to
estimate population parameters and calculate measures of uncertainty, such as confidence
intervals and p-values. This enhances the reliability and validity of the research findings.

3. Reduction of Sampling Bias:

Probability sampling methods minimize sampling bias, which occurs when certain individuals or
groups are systematically overrepresented or underrepresented in the sample. By employing
random selection techniques, researchers reduce the likelihood of bias and increase the accuracy
of their sample representation.

Disadvantages of Probability Sampling:

1. Time and Resource Intensive:

Probability sampling methods often require more time and resources compared to non-
probability sampling methods. The process of selecting a representative sample can be time-
consuming, especially in large populations. Additionally, the need for a sampling frame and the
effort involved in reaching out to potential participants can increase the costs associated with
probability sampling.

2. Potential Non-Response Bias:

Non-response bias can occur when selected individuals refuse to participate or cannot be
reached. Although probability sampling methods aim to minimize non-response bias, it can still
be a challenge to achieve high response rates. If non-response is not random and related to the
variables under study, it can introduce bias and affect the generalizability of the findings.

3. Complexity in Implementation:

Probability sampling methods require careful planning and implementation. Researchers need to
select an appropriate sampling technique, determine the sample size, and ensure proper
randomization. These steps may require statistical expertise and a thorough understanding of the
population, which can pose challenges for researchers who are less experienced in sampling
techniques.

In conclusion, probability sampling offers several advantages in social sciences research,

including representative sampling, statistical inference, and reduction of sampling bias.
However, it also has disadvantages, such as being time and resource-intensive, potential non-
response bias, and complexity in implementation. Researchers should carefully consider these
factors when choosing the most suitable sampling method for their study.

(c) State three advantages and three disadvantages of purposive sampling

Purposive sampling is a non-probability sampling technique widely used in social sciences

research. It involves selecting participants based on specific criteria relevant to the research
question. While purposive sampling offers several advantages, it also has some limitations that
researchers should consider. This essay will discuss three advantages and three disadvantages of
purposive sampling in social sciences research.
One of the major advantages of purposive sampling is the ability to obtain a sample that is
representative of a specific population or subgroup. Researchers can select participants who
possess the desired characteristics or expertise required for the study. This targeted approach
allows for a more focused investigation and enhances the validity of the findings (Morse, 2000).

Secondly, purposive sampling provides researchers with the opportunity to study rare or hard-to-
reach populations. Certain groups, such as individuals with specific medical conditions or
individuals involved in illegal activities, are often difficult to access. Purposive sampling enables
researchers to overcome these challenges and obtain valuable insights from these populations
(Creswell, 2014).

Another advantage of purposive sampling is its cost-effectiveness and time-efficiency.

Compared to probability sampling methods, purposive sampling requires fewer resources as
researchers can select participants who are easily accessible and readily available. This method
also saves time by allowing researchers to focus on relevant cases, thereby optimizing data
collection and analysis processes (Patton, 2015).

Despite its advantages, purposive sampling has several limitations that researchers should
consider. One of the main disadvantages is the potential for researcher bias. Since participants
are selectively chosen based on specific criteria, the researcher's personal judgment may
influence the sample composition and compromise the objectivity of the study (Guest et al.,
2006).

Another disadvantage of purposive sampling is the limited generalizability of findings. As the

sample is not randomly selected, the findings may not be applicable to the broader population.
This restriction reduces the external validity of the study and limits the generalizability of the
results (Palinkas et al., 2015).

Lastly, there is a possibility of information loss due to the exclusion of individuals who do not
meet the specific selection criteria. This exclusion may result in missing important perspectives
or characteristics that could provide a more comprehensive understanding of the research topic
(Coyne, 1997).

In conclusion, purposive sampling offers advantages such as representativeness, access to hard-

to-reach populations, and cost-effectiveness. However, researchers should be mindful of the
potential for bias, limited generalizability, and information loss when using this sampling
technique. By carefully considering these advantages and disadvantages, researchers can make
informed decisions about the appropriateness of purposive sampling for their social sciences
research.

(d) Why is systematic sampling classified as a quasi- sampling method?

Systematic sampling is a widely used sampling method in social sciences research. It is often
classified as a quasi-sampling method due to certain characteristics that differentiate it from truly
random sampling techniques. This essay aims to explore why systematic sampling is considered
quasi in nature and discuss its advantages and limitations in social sciences research.

Firstly, it is important to understand the fundamental principles of systematic sampling. In this

method, the researcher selects every nth element from the population to create the sample. For
instance, if a researcher wants to survey a population of 100 individuals and decides to use a
systematic sampling with a sampling interval of 10, they would select every 10th individual from
the population. This process continues until the desired sample size is achieved.

One reason why systematic sampling is classified as a quasi-sampling method is its reliance on
an ordered list of the population. To implement systematic sampling, the population must be
organized in a sequential manner, such as an alphabetical or numerical order. This requirement
poses a limitation as it may introduce bias if the ordering of the population is related to the
research topic.

Furthermore, the quasi-nature of systematic sampling is evident in its vulnerability to periodic

patterns or cycles in the population. If a periodic pattern exists, such as a weekly or monthly
variation, it may coincide with the sampling interval and lead to a non-representative sample. For
example, if a researcher uses a sampling interval of 7 to select individuals from a population that
exhibits weekly patterns, the sample may over-represent or under-represent certain days of the
week.

Despite these limitations, systematic sampling offers several advantages in social sciences
research. One major advantage is its simplicity and ease of implementation. Researchers can
easily calculate the sampling interval and select the sample using a systematic approach. This
method also ensures equal probability of selection for each element in the population, making it
more representative than other non-random sampling techniques.

In conclusion, systematic sampling is classified as a quasi-sampling method due to its reliance on

an ordered list of the population and its vulnerability to periodic patterns. While it may introduce
some bias and limitations, systematic sampling remains a valuable technique in social sciences
research. Researchers should be aware of its potential limitations and carefully consider its
suitability for their specific research objectives.

(i) List down 2 types of study designs into which conclusive research can be divided

In the field of Social Sciences, research studies are conducted to gain a deeper understanding of
human behavior, social interactions, and societal phenomena. Conclusive research plays a crucial
role in providing evidence-based findings to support theories and inform decision-making. This
essay aims to discuss two types of study designs commonly used in Social Sciences research:
experimental studies and observational studies.

Experimental Studies:

Experimental studies are commonly used in Social Sciences research to establish cause-and-
effect relationships between variables. These studies involve the manipulation of an independent
variable to observe its impact on a dependent variable. Random assignment of participants to
different groups helps minimize bias and increase the internal validity of the study (Smith, 2018).
For example, a researcher interested in examining the effect of a new teaching method on
students' academic performance may randomly assign students to either the experimental group
(exposed to the new teaching method) or the control group (exposed to the traditional teaching
method). By comparing the academic performance of both groups, the researcher can determine
whether the new teaching method has a significant impact.

Observational Studies:

Observational studies involve observing and recording behaviors or phenomena without

intervening or manipulating any variables. These studies aim to describe and understand social
phenomena in their natural settings. There are three main types of observational studies:
naturalistic observation, participant observation, and archival research (Russell, 2016).
Naturalistic observation involves observing individuals or groups in their everyday environment,
without any interference. Participant observation involves researchers immersing themselves in
the social setting they are studying, actively participating and observing simultaneously.
Archival research utilizes existing records or documents to analyze patterns and trends over time.
For instance, a researcher interested in studying peer interactions in a school setting may choose
to conduct naturalistic observations, observing students during recess or lunch breaks, and
documenting their social interactions.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, conclusive research in Social Sciences can be divided into two main types of
study designs: experimental studies and observational studies. Experimental studies allow
researchers to establish cause-and-effect relationships by manipulating independent variables,
while observational studies provide valuable insights into social phenomena without
intervention. Both study designs have their strengths and limitations, and selecting the
appropriate design depends on the research question and context. By utilizing these study designs
effectively, researchers can contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of Social
Sciences.

(ii) List down three (3) types of study designs that falls under descriptive research

Descriptive research is a method used in social sciences to observe and describe the
characteristics and behaviors of a particular population or phenomenon. It aims to provide a
detailed account of the research subject without manipulating or influencing it. In this essay, we
will discuss three types of study designs that fall under descriptive research.
1. Cross-sectional Studies:

Cross-sectional studies are one of the most common types of descriptive research designs. These
studies collect data at a specific point in time to gain a snapshot of the population or
phenomenon under investigation. Researchers gather information from a representative sample
of the population and analyze it to understand the prevalence and distribution of variables of
interest. Cross-sectional studies are often used to study the association between different
variables within a population. For example, a cross-sectional study may examine the relationship
between income level and educational attainment in a specific community (Smith, 2018).

2. Longitudinal Studies:

Longitudinal studies involve collecting data from the same sample over an extended period.
Researchers gather information at multiple time points to track changes and identify patterns in
the population or phenomenon being studied. This design allows for the exploration of trends,
the examination of causal relationships, and the identification of developmental trajectories. For
instance, a longitudinal study may follow a group of individuals from childhood to adulthood to
understand the long-term effects of early childhood experiences on adult well-being (Johnson et
al., 2019).

3. Case Studies:

Case studies involve an in-depth examination of a particular individual, group, or phenomenon.

Researchers collect detailed information through various methods such as interviews, direct
observation, and analysis of documents or artifacts. Case studies are particularly useful when
studying rare occurrences or complex phenomena, as they provide rich and detailed insights. For
example, a case study may investigate the impact of a specific intervention program on the
academic performance of a selected group of students (Brown, 2017).

In conclusion, descriptive research encompasses several study designs that allow researchers to
provide detailed descriptions of populations or phenomena. Cross-sectional studies provide a
snapshot of the population at a specific point in time, longitudinal studies track changes over an
extended period, and case studies offer detailed insights into specific individuals or situations.
Each design has its strengths and limitations, and researchers must carefully select the most
appropriate design based on their research objectives and resources.
 (iii) State three types of study designs that are classified under casual designs

In the field of social sciences, the use of casual study designs is essential for understanding the
cause-and-effect relationships between variables. Casual study designs allow researchers to
investigate the impact of specific interventions or treatments on the outcomes of interest. This
essay aims to discuss three types of casual study designs commonly employed in social sciences
research.

Experimental Designs

Experimental designs are considered the gold standard for establishing causality in research. In
this type of design, researchers manipulate an independent variable, known as the treatment or
intervention, and observe its effects on a dependent variable. The random assignment of
participants into different groups, such as the experimental and control groups, ensures that any
observed differences in the outcomes can be attributed to the intervention rather than other
factors. Experimental designs often employ randomized controlled trials (RCTs), which involve
random assignment and a control group receiving no treatment. For instance, a study by Smith et
al. (2019) used an RCT to examine the effectiveness of a mindfulness-based intervention on
reducing stress levels among college students.

Quasi-Experimental Designs

Quasi-experimental designs are similar to experimental designs but lack the element of random
assignment. Instead, researchers utilize existing groups or naturally occurring events to create
comparison groups. This type of design is useful when random assignment is either impractical
or unethical. For example, a study by Johnson and Brown (2018) employed a quasi-experimental
design to investigate the impact of a school-based intervention program on academic
achievement. They compared the academic performance of students who participated in the
program with those who did not, using pre-existing groupings.

Longitudinal Designs

Longitudinal designs involve collecting data from the same individuals over an extended period.
This design allows researchers to examine changes in variables over time and establish temporal
relationships, which is crucial for establishing causality. Longitudinal designs can be
prospective, where data is collected in the future, or retrospective, where data is collected from
the past. For instance, a study by Thompson et al. (2020) utilized a prospective longitudinal
design to investigate the long-term effects of childhood adversity on mental health outcomes in
adulthood.

Conclusion

Casual study designs are vital in social sciences research as they provide a framework for
establishing causal relationships between variables. Experimental designs, quasi-experimental
designs, and longitudinal designs offer distinct methods to investigate causality in different
research contexts. By employing these study designs, researchers can generate robust evidence to
guide interventions and policies aimed at improving social outcomes.

(iv) What do you understand by non-experimental study design?

Non-experimental study design is a research approach used in social sciences that aims to
investigate and understand phenomena without manipulating variables or implementing
controlled conditions. Unlike experimental study designs, non-experimental designs do not
involve the random assignment of participants to different groups or conditions. Instead,
researchers observe and analyze existing data or conduct surveys, interviews, or case studies to
gather information about the variables of interest.

In non-experimental study designs, researchers primarily focus on exploring and describing

relationships between variables in their natural settings. They do not have control over the
independent variable, as it is not manipulated or altered. Instead, they examine the existing
relationships between variables and draw conclusions based on the observed patterns and
correlations.

One common type of non-experimental design is the correlational study. Correlational studies
examine the relationship between two or more variables without manipulating them. Researchers
collect data on the variables of interest and analyze the degree and direction of their association.
For example, a social scientist may investigate the relationship between income and education
level, without intervening or manipulating these variables.
Another non-experimental design is the observational study. Observational studies involve the
systematic observation of individuals or groups in their natural environments. Researchers gather
data by observing behaviors, interactions, or phenomena without intervening or manipulating
any variables. This approach is often used in fields such as anthropology or sociology to
understand social interactions or cultural practices.

Non-experimental designs also include survey research, where researchers collect data by
administering questionnaires or interviews to participants. Surveys allow researchers to gather
information from a large sample of individuals and explore their opinions, attitudes, or
behaviors. The data collected can then be analyzed to identify patterns or relationships between
variables.

In conclusion, non-experimental study designs in social sciences involve the investigation of

phenomena without manipulating variables. These designs rely on observations, surveys, or
existing data to explore and describe relationships between variables. While they may not
provide causality, non-experimental designs offer valuable insights into the natural world and
contribute to the understanding of complex social phenomena.