Questions: (LO2) Sociological research uses the scientific method. What is the first step of sociological research? Design and conduct a Study Research existing sources Ask a question Draw conclusions Formulate a hypothesis Report Results

The answer is: Ask a question.

Explanation for each option:

1. Ask a question: This is the first step in the scientific method used in sociological research. It involves identifying a specific issue or topic that the researcher wants to explore. This question guides the entire research process.

2. Research existing sources: This step involves reviewing the existing literature and studies related to the research question. It helps the researcher understand what is already known about the topic and identify gaps in the current knowledge.

3. Formulate a hypothesis: After reviewing existing sources, the researcher formulates a hypothesis, which is a testable statement predicting the relationship between variables. This step comes after asking a question and researching existing sources.

4. Design and conduct a study: This step involves planning how to collect data to test the hypothesis. It includes selecting research methods, sampling, and data collection techniques. This step follows the formulation of a hypothesis.

5. Draw conclusions: After collecting and analyzing data, the researcher draws conclusions about whether the hypothesis is supported or not. This step comes after designing and conducting the study.

6. Report results: The final step involves sharing the findings with others, often through publications, presentations, or reports. This step follows drawing conclusions.

In summary, the first step in sociological research using the scientific method is to ask a question.