Research Methodology and Groups 2 .docx - Assignment 1 ...

Assignment 1, Research Methodology and Studying Groups
SOCY 100: Introduction to Sociology
Montgomery College
In class, we have been exploring two major building blocks of sociology: research
methodology/the science of sociology and the impact of groups and collectivities on our
behavior. For this assignment you will bring these two topics together, analyzing a social
scientific study that sheds light on the power of groups and authority figures. After
having read about/watched/listened to a clip discussing a social scientific study, you will
complete an assignment in which you discuss the components, major findings, and ethical
implications of the research.
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Choose only one of the following three options for this assignment:
Option 1 : Stanley Milgram “Obedience” Study ( A summary of the study on
YouTube ):
Option 2 : Zimbardo’s Stanford Prison Study ( A slide show with text and pictures [click on
the “read the story” link at the bottom of the home page. You will be presented with an 8
page slideshow that includes text, pictures, and video. Scroll to the bottom of each page
to move through the slideshow):
Option 3 : “Fake TV Game Show ‘Tortures’ Man, Shocks France” ( A podcast from NPR ):
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After having read Chapters 2 and 5 in your book and having watched/listened to one
of the above explanations of a study, type responses to the following questions:
(It is best to use ONLY information from your textbook; do not try to find additional
information online – it will likely be more of a detriment than a help. If you do, however,
you MUST cite the webpage(s)/sources of information you used in your answer . I would
prefer that you number each of your answers so it corresponds with the numbered
questions, but if you are more comfortable typing your answers in a traditional paper
format, you are welcome to do so.)

1. (15 points ) In a paragraph or two, write a brief summary about the major components of
the research. How was the study set up? Who were the participants? (Your
explanation of the research should be clear enough that someone who may have never
heard of this study would get a clear picture of how the research was done. This should
also be in your own words. )