Methods in empirical social research

Empirical studies serve to analyse sociological theories with regard to their validity and significance. Moreover, empirical studies contribute to the generation of new theoretical concepts or the development of existing theories. The systematic acquisition and analysis of data collected in empirical research is, in general terms, the core of the methods in empirical social research.

The social researchers' objectives of study are quite diverse, and so are the methodological approaches to obtaining the desired knowledge. Surveys, observations, experimental studies, evaluations or document analyses are the main approaches. There is a wide variety of ways in which these individual approaches can be implemented, as well, for example in the form of personal or telephone interviews, or as mixed-mode surveys. Some approaches combine qualitative and quantitative approaches, such as the Delphi technique or other mixed method studies. The researchers have at their disposal various methods of data analysis, such as multivariate techniques, network analysis, or structural equation modelling - to name but a few. Telephone surveys are of particular importance in the spectrum of methods. More recent data collection methods make extensive use of the possibilities of the Internet (online panels, online surveys, smartphone surveys, big data analyses).

In teaching, the Chair offers courses on qualitative and quantitative methods. Within the framework of the Sociology programme (Bachelor, Master), it is involved in the introductory courses on social science methods. In addition, it offers in-depth courses on special social science methods (e.g. online surveys, questionnaires, observation, interviewing, various procedures of data analysis). Furthermore, the Chair offers the CATI internship. For the training in data analysis, we use the programmes Stata, Mplus, R, and SPSS.

In research, the staff of the Chair is committed to various topics. The project 'ENSURE' optimises measuring instruments for different target groups. The project 'Survey of nursing staff in the district of Bautzen' interviews service providers and institutions in the district of Bautzen with the aim of making the services offered by the district more suitable for senior citizens.