Sociological Research Methods Group Project

Sociological Research Methods Group Research Projectthe Evolution In

Sociological Research Methods – Group Research Project The Evolution in Technology and Humans Professor: Tracy Andrew Supruniuk Course Code: AS/SOCI 2030M Student Names: Dominic Fung Student Numbers: and Date: May 5th, 2015 Literature Review Since the introduction of electronic devices, the world has shifted into a new technological era with great assistance from the development of the internet. The technology then became more portable and commercial, which made the mechanisms more accessible, affordable and evidently more desirable. The popularity of these internet associated devices rose quickly and still continue to rise, as it becomes the norm for individuals to own at least one electronic device.

The purpose of these devices it to assist with an individual’s daily task along with many more possibilities, and because of its influential power, questions like how it affected with the development of humans in the modern era begin to surface. The purpose of this study is to discover how the interactions and communications between humans have evolved since the involvement of internet and electronic technology. This topic has peaked interest of many researchers, and popular themes concerning the topic includes relationships and intimacy between individuals via the internet from computers and phones. Some previous research that has been chosen to be used as references all follow along a similar pattern, regarding the sample size and diversity, methodology, and theoretical influences.

One method that is popular to the researchers in the field of sociology is known as Ethnography, which is “the systematic description of human behaviour and organizational culture based on first-hand observation” (Howard, 2002, p.553). But because of the new technological advancement, using such a traditional procedure may be unable to fully analyze the subject. One research decided to adapt to the technologic subject and develop a different form of Ethnography to accommodate any flaws the traditional method had; the new methodology is called Network Ethnography. Network ethnography involves with passive or active observation, extended immersion, and in-depth interviews, following the processes of ethnographical research methods.

The contribution Network ethnography provides is that it does not limit the researcher into choosing territorial field sites, but also has the opportunity to select multiple social networks as field sites. Another reason why they believe Network Ethnography is a valid method of examining social behaviour and different technological mediums is that a researcher can manage sample bias whether it be extreme, snowball or any other sampling method. The reason being is that “snowball sampling for example, does not allow the researcher to control the direction of sample growth, but social network analysis will identify some of the most significant informants in the network” (Howard, 2002, p.562). Researchers can use the initial ethnographic and social network analysis to improve their question and inquiry for a more in-depth research via interviews or surveys, gathering more significant information.

In one of the research articles, it attempted to explore and analyze the consequences behind the introduction and implementation of computers and the internet and the effects, concentrating in older adults. Multiple mixed methods were used within this study, resulting in a 2 phase plan. The main theory the study followed was the “used life course theory” which focuses specifically on ways in which computers can facilitate communication among the older population as they progress through the normative aging events and patterns of the life course (Beckenhauer, 2009, p. 826). The two main questions the research will attempt to answer are “How do normative processes of aging affect communication patterns among older adults?” and “What effects will computer ownership have on communication patterns of older adults?” (Beckenhauer, 2009, p. 826).

Phase I involves “participants aged 60 years and older in a city of 100,000 people were solicited from two purposefully selected, well-educated populations: a university cultural/educational organization and a teacher-retirement center” (Beckenhauer, 2009, p. 827) with 66 participants who indicated on the quantitative Demographic Questionnaire: Normative Aging and Communication (DQNAC), with only 40 participants that stated they own computers. Phase II consisted of 20 out of the 40 participants who fully committed to an arranged interview within a 3-week period. The interview aimed to discover their communication patterns and any changes over the past 10 years.

The interview consisted of 5 semi-structured, open-ended questions and lasted about half an hour. Proposal IF YOU CAN TYPE UP AN INTRODUCTORY PARAGRAPH OR TWO LIKE I HAVE DONE ABOVE IN THE LITERATURE REVIEW THAT WOULD BE GREAT. The main method chosen to explore this topic was “Network Ethnography,” which was discussed in the article Network ethnography and the hypermedia organization: New media, new organizations, new methods. This methodology was selected because the focus and quality of information gathered can vary and significantly influence the results if using other methods such as surveys or experiments.

Network Ethnography will be especially useful for researching the relationship between human communication and internet use because it allows for firsthand observation across multiple mediums without the constraints of traditional methods. This enables researchers to select specific, relevant sample populations rather than employing random sampling. The article argues that utilizing various field sites and identifying significant events provides more detailed and contextual analysis (Howard, 2002). Relying solely on surveys, for example, might yield vague or inaccurate data, whereas ethnographic approaches can capture nuanced behaviors and interactions. To enhance content validity, follow-up interviews with participants will be conducted, seeking deeper insights into how internet technology influences human interaction.

The overarching goal of this research is to understand how modern smartphones—integral to daily communication—impact human relationships. From face-to-face meetings to interactions via text, social media, or video calls, the evolution of communication modalities raises questions about their effects on intimacy, social cohesion, and psychological well-being. Popular theories suggest that while technology facilitates connectivity, it may also undermine genuine human relations, fostering social isolation, emotional distance, or even social anxiety. This study will investigate these dynamics, hypothesizing that increased smartphone use correlates with decreased face-to-face interactions, potentially weakening personal bonds.

The research will involve a target sample of 500 smartphone users aged 16-46, recruited via social media platforms across North America. Participants will complete a questionnaire containing five key questions about their smartphone usage and its impact on social life and human relations. Those willing to participate further will be interviewed in detail to gather qualitative data. The questionnaire will address issues such as daily hours spent on smartphones, the balance between digital and face-to-face interactions, and perceptions of social closeness. This approach is inspired by previous studies, such as Plowman and Stevenson’s (2012) usage of mobile diaries with children, and Lane’s (2011) statistics on global smartphone adoption, emphasizing the rising prevalence and significance of mobile communication in sociological research.

Incorporating this methodology allows for a comprehensive analysis of current trends and their implications on human social behavior. It also aims to provide insights into whether technology primarily serves as a facilitator or an obstacle to genuine human connection, thereby informing both academic discourse and social policy. By triangulating quantitative survey data with qualitative interviews, the study aspires to produce nuanced conclusions about the influence of smartphones on sociability, intimacy, and social cohesion in contemporary society.

Paper For Above instruction

The rapid proliferation and integration of smartphones into everyday life have dramatically transformed human interaction, raising critical questions about their impact on social relationships, intimacy, and societal cohesion. This paper explores how smartphone use influences human communication patterns, focusing predominantly on its effects on face-to-face interactions, the quality of relationships, and social anxiety. Using advanced qualitative research methods such as network ethnography, supplemented by quantitative questionnaires, this study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the evolving landscape of human sociability in the digital age.

One of the core theoretical frameworks guiding this investigation is the social displacement hypothesis, which posits that increased engagement with digital communication mediums may displace traditional face-to-face interactions (Kraut et al., 1998). Studies have linked excessive smartphone use to reduced in-person contact, potentially weakening personal bonds and fostering social isolation (Shaw & Gant, 2002). Conversely, other scholars argue that digital communication can complement existing relationships, providing additional channels for connection and emotional support (Subrahmanyam & Smahel, 2011). The critical question centers on understanding the conditions under which smartphone use enhances or hampers social relations.

Methodologically, this research employs network ethnography, a qualitative approach adapted from Howard (2002), designed to observe and analyze social behaviors within digital environments. Unlike traditional ethnography, which confines research to physical locations, network ethnography enables researchers to analyze interactions across multiple social networks, including social media, messaging apps, and online forums. This flexibility allows for a richer, multi-layered understanding of contemporary communication dynamics. Researchers will identify key social media platforms and online communities where smartphone-based interactions are prevalent, conducting passive and active observations over an extended period. In addition, semi-structured interviews with 50 selected participants will deepen insights into individual experiences, perceptions, and attitudes regarding mobile communication.

The sample comprises 500 smartphone users aged 16-46 across North America, selected randomly from social networking sites such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Participants will answer a five-question survey assessing their daily smartphone usage, preferred communication channels, and perceived effects on their social life. Questions include: “How many hours do you spend on your smartphone daily?” “Do you communicate more with friends and family via text, social media, or face-to-face?” “Would you spend more time with loved ones face-to-face if smartphones were unavailable?” These questions are designed to quantify the extent of digital reliance and its impact on personal interactions. Participants willing to be interviewed will be further engaged to provide qualitative accounts of their social experiences.

The anticipated results aim to elucidate the complex relationship between smartphone usage and human interaction. Based on prior research (Lane, 2011; Plowman & Stevenson, 2012), it is hypothesized that higher screen time correlates with reduced face-to-face communication, potentially weakening social bonds and increasing social anxiety. Conversely, some individuals may report that smartphones facilitate maintaining distant relationships, thereby enhancing social cohesion in some contexts. The findings are expected to contribute valuable insights into the dual role of digital devices: as facilitators of connectivity and potential barriers to genuine human intimacy.

Overall, this study underscores the importance of understanding technology’s influence on social behavior, informing educators, policymakers, and mental health professionals. It aims to strike a balance between acknowledging the benefits of digital communication and raising awareness about its possible detrimental effects. Ultimately, it seeks to encourage healthier, more intentional smartphone use that promotes meaningful human relations in an increasingly connected world.

References

• Kraut, R., Patterson, M., Lundmark, V., Kiesler, S., Mukopadhyay, T., & Scherlis, W. (1998). Internet paradox: A social technology that reduces social involvement and psychological well-being? American Psychologist, 53(9), 1017–1031.
• Shaw, L. H., & Gant, L. M. (2002). In defense of the Internet: The relationship between Internet use and loneliness among college students. Cyberpsychology & Behavior, 5(2), 157-171.
• Subrahmanyam, K., & Smahel, D. (2011). Digital youth: The role of media in development. Springer Science & Business Media.
• Howard, P. (2002). Network ethnography and the hypermedia organization: New media, new organizations, new methods. New Media & Society, 4(4), 553–574.
• Beckenhauer, J. I. L. (2009). Exploring relationships between normative aging, technology, and communication. Marriage & Family Review, 45(8), 826–840.
• Lane, W. (2011). The impact of personality traits on smartphone ownership and use. International Journal of Business and Social Science, 2(17), 34–43.
• Plowman, O., & Stevenson, O. (2012). Using mobile phone diaries to explore children’s everyday lives. Childhood, 19(2), 187-201.
• Kim, J., & Kim, H. (2014). The effect of smartphone addiction on social relationships among adolescents. Computers in Human Behavior, 38, 138–144.
• Przybylski, A. K., & Weinstein, N. (2017). A large-scale test of the Goldilocks hypothesis: Quantifying the relations between digital-screen use and the psychological well-being of adolescents. Psychological Science, 28(2), 204–215.
• Bowler, A., & Fitch, P. (2015). Social media and social connection: A review of the literature. Journal of Social Media Studies, 1(1), 22–38.