Showing papers in "Methodological Innovations online in 2016"
TL;DR: In this article, a review of issues associated with measuring occupations and using occupation-based socioeconomic classifications in social science research is presented, orientated towards researchers who undertake secondary analysis of large-scale micro-level social science datasets.
Abstract: This article is a review of issues associated with measuring occupations and using occupation-based socio-economic classifications in social science research. The review is orientated towards researchers who undertake secondary analysis of large-scale micro-level social science datasets. This article begins with an outline of how to handle raw occupational information. This is followed by an introduction to the two main approaches to measuring occupations and a third lesser known but intellectually innovative approach. The three approaches are social class schemes, social stratification scales and the microclass approach. International comparisons are briefly described and a discussion of intersectionality with other key variables such as age and gender is provided. We are careful to emphasise that this article does not advocate the uncritical adoption of any one particular occupation-based socio-economic measure over and above other alternatives. Rather, we are advocating that researchers should choose f...
118 citations
TL;DR: In the context of longitudinal studies, this article showed that it is difficult to determine whether a difference between two successive observations is attributable to a real change of the respondents or only to the characteristics of the measurement tool, which then leads to a possible misinterpretation of the results.
Abstract: Test–retest is a concept that is routinely evaluated during the validation phase of many measurement tools. However, this term covers at least two related but very different concepts: reliability and agreement. Reliability is the ability of a measure applied twice upon the same respondents to produce the same ranking on both occasions. Agreement requires the measurement tool to produce twice the same exact values. An analysis of research papers showed that the distinction between both concepts remains anything but clear, and that the current practice is to evaluate reliability only, generally on the basis of the sole Pearson’s correlation. This practice is very problematic in the context of longitudinal studies because it becomes difficult to determine whether a difference between two successive observations is attributable to a real change of the respondents or only to the characteristics of the measurement tool, which then leads to a possible misinterpretation of the results. More focus should be given ...
115 citations
TL;DR: This work contends that the instrumental approach is better suited to test hypotheses, as it does not assume any structure a priori, but derives it from the data, and can be applied to investigate criminal networks while rejecting the notion of networks as a distinct form of organisation.
Abstract: This is the final version of the article. It first appeared from SAGE Publications via http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/2059799115622748
55 citations
TL;DR: In this article, a recently developed spatial point pattern test is discussed that compares the similarity of two different data sets and can be used to compare different phenomena (different types of crime or public health issues) or the same phenomenon over time, for example.
Abstract: The analysis of spatial point patterns is a critical component of the geographic information analysis literature. Most of the tests for these data are concerned with random, uniform, and clustered patterns. However, knowing whether a spatial point pattern is similar to these theoretical data-generating processes is not always instructive: most human activity is clustered, so finding that some component of human activity is clustered is not really new information. In this article, a recently developed spatial point pattern test is discussed that compares the similarity of two different data sets. This comparison can be comparisons of different phenomena (different types of crime or public health issues) or the same phenomenon over time, for example. The discussion revolves around the test itself, its varied applications, and the future developments expected for this spatial point pattern test.
51 citations
TL;DR: In this article, a method of "research at the interface" that utilises appreciative inquiry with culturally appropriate conversations (yarning) was employed across four prisons, and applied as an innovative solution to measuring prison performance.
Abstract: With First Peoples and non-First Peoples scholars alike questioning the efficacy of research methods based solely upon accepted social science research paradigms with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations, innovative and ontologically inclusive alternatives require consideration. Research conducted with incarcerated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women in the Northern Territory and Western Australia may provide such an opportunity, arguing for a method of 'research at the interface' that utilises appreciative inquiry with culturally appropriate conversations (yarning). Employed across four prisons, the interface research method was applied as an innovative solution to measuring prison performance. It highlighted the lived experience of incarceration while re-imagining the prison, as it exists when it functions at its best. The article begins with a snapshot of the research conducted with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women in prisons across the Northern Territory and Western Australia; this provides a frame through which to consider the efficacy of interfacing First Peoples research paradigms with Western traditional modes of research. Furthermore, the innovative application of appreciative inquiry to the prison is discussed. Given that appreciative inquiry explores and privileges the narrative as a means of making sense of the prison experience, the authors suggest it complements the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander tradition of 'yarning'. A yarning style represents a way of ensuring cultural safety, respect and the utilisation of First Peoples ontology to research conducted with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women. Overall, it is delineated how interfacing appreciative inquiry and yarning may provide a viable alternative to the deep colonising and perpetually oppressive use of Western modes of scholarship when engaging in research with First Peoples. Language: en
51 citations
TL;DR: This article builds on suggestions that the search for interaction effects should employ multi-level modelling strategies and outlines a procedure for modelling patterns in data sets with small numbers of observations in many, if not all, of their multivariate contingency table cells; all expected cells must be non-zero.
Abstract: Much quantitative behavioural social science – a great deal of it exploratory in nature – involves the analysis of multivariate contingency tables, usually deploying logistic binomial and multinomi...
36 citations
TL;DR: A review of issues associated with measuring ethnicity and using ethnicity measures in social science research is presented in this article, which is oriented towards researchers who undertake secondary analyses of large-scale multipurpose social science datasets.
Abstract: This article is a review of issues associated with measuring ethnicity and using ethnicity measures in social science research. The review is oriented towards researchers who undertake secondary analyses of large-scale multipurpose social science datasets. The article begins with an outline of two main approaches used in social surveys to measure ethnicity, the ‘mutually exclusive category’ approach and the ‘multiple characteristics’ approach. We also describe approaches to the use of ethnicity measures in cross-national comparative research. We emphasise the value of sensitivity analyses. We also encourage researchers to carefully consider the possible relationships between ethnicity and other important variables in order to avoid spurious interpretations of the effects of ethnicity.
33 citations
TL;DR: The ease and affordability of Amazon's Mechanical Turk make it ripe for longitudinal, or panel, study designs in social science research as discussed by the authors. But the discipline has not yet investigated how incentives...
Abstract: The ease and affordability of Amazon’s Mechanical Turk make it ripe for longitudinal, or panel, study designs in social science research. But the discipline has not yet investigated how incentives ...
24 citations
TL;DR: This article carve out its capacity to handle “Big Data” in suitable formats of the Python programming language, and introduces programming libraries to analyze large networks and big text corpora, conduct simulations, and compare their performance to their counterparts in the R environment.
Abstract: Today’s world allows people to connect over larger distances and in shorter intervals than ever before, widely monitored by massive online data sources. Ongoing worldwide computerization has led to...
22 citations
TL;DR: A review of issues associated with measuring education and using educational measures in social science research is presented in this article, which is orientated towards researchers who undertake secondary analyses of large-scale micro-level social science datasets.
Abstract: This article is a review of issues associated with measuring education and using educational measures in social science research. The review is orientated towards researchers who undertake secondary analyses of large-scale micro-level social science datasets. The article begins with an outline of important context, which impinges upon the measurement of education. The United Kingdom is the focus of this review, but similar issues apply to other nation states. We provide a critical introduction to the main approaches to measuring education in social survey research, which include measuring years of education, using categorical qualification based measures and scaling approaches. We advocate the use of established education measures to better facilitate comparability and replication. We conclude by making the recommendation that researchers place careful thought into which educational measure they select, and that researchers should routinely engage in appropriate sensitivity analyses.
21 citations
TL;DR: This article extends the use of dynamic line-graphs to bipartite networks for incorporating time directly into the network, and suggests an alternative way to visualise the evolution of actors’ participation in successive covert actions and events.
Abstract: Criminal organisations tend to be structured as a network in order to optimise flows of resource exchanges. The consolidation of these structures strengthens the criminal organisation�s capability of becoming more and more efficient over time. Recently, researchers in the field of covert networks have begun to analyse the dynamics of these networks. Thus far, the models and methods used to analyse the temporal dynamics of covert networks have come with a number of limitations. Our approach for analysing temporal dynamics attempts to address some of these limitations. In this paper, we extend the use of dynamic line-graphs to bipartite networks for incorporating time directly into the network and we suggest an alternative way to visualise the evolution of actors� participation in successive covert actions and events. Our paper intends to contribute to the research on dynamic networks by proposing a new approach for representing temporal dynamics in covert networks. After illustrating our method, we present some examples of its use on real-world data for visualizing network evolutions over time.
TL;DR: This final article discusses several important issues relating to the inclusion of key variables in statistical modelling analyses, and emphasises the importance of two, often overlooked, elements of the social survey data analysis process, sensitivity analysis and documentation for replication.
Abstract: The application of statistical modelling techniques has become a cornerstone of analyses of large-scale social survey data. Bringing this special section on key variables to a close, this final art...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors outline the case for peace and conflict researchers to formulate a research covenant to better shape their ethical obligations and responsibilities, which is an urgent necessity given the complexity of conflict resolution.
Abstract: This article outlines the case for peace and conflict researchers to formulate a research covenant to better shape their ethical obligations and responsibilities. This is an urgent necessity given ...
TL;DR: In this article, cross-cultural comparative surveys have become an important tool to investigate social attitudes across different countries, however, this methodology is confronted with a number of challenges, such as:
Abstract: Cross-cultural comparative surveys have become an important tool to investigate social attitudes across different countries. However, this methodology is confronted with a number of challenges. One...
TL;DR: There has been a growing recognition of the potential utility of social network analysis for the analysis of culture and more especially "music worlds" in recent years as discussed by the authors, however, studies ha...
Abstract: There has been a growing recognition of the potential utility of social network analysis for the analysis of culture and more especially ‘music worlds’ in recent years. To date, however, studies ha...
TL;DR: This article aims to provide an overview of this sampling technique with an update on the key questions that remain when using respondent-driven sampling, with regard to its application and estimators.
Abstract: In the last 5 years, more than 600 articles using respondent-driven sampling has been published. This article aims to provide an overview of this sampling technique with an update on the key questi...
TL;DR: An under-explored area in Everett and Borgatti's work is in how this method can be applied to centrality problems; an issue is sought to begin to address here.
Abstract: Research using techniques from social network analysis have expanded dramatically in recent years. The availability of network data and the recognition that social network techniques can provide an...
TL;DR: Formative qualitative research was conducted to enhance acceptability of a conditional cash transfer intervention aimed at reducing amphetamine-type substance use and HIV risk among female entertainment/sex workers and inform implementation as part of a large cluster randomized trial.
Abstract: HIV risk remains high among Cambodian female entertainment and sex workers, driven by amphetamine-type substance use and sexual risk. Conditional cash transfer is an evidence-based approach to reduce stimulant use and optimize HIV/AIDS prevention, but questions remain regarding implementation in resource-limited settings. We conducted formative qualitative research to enhance acceptability of a conditional cash transfer intervention aimed at reducing amphetamine-type substance use and HIV risk among female entertainment/sex workers and inform implementation as part of a large cluster randomized trial. We conducted in-depth interviews with 30 female entertainment/sex workers. Interviews were digitally recorded and conducted and transcribed in Khmer. English transcripts were read for emerging themes and an initial coding scheme was developed. Data were coded using open and axial coding to clarify and consolidate initial themes. While most participants expressed enthusiasm for the intervention, financial and transportation issues emerged as key barriers to participation. The proposed incentive of USD$1 per screen was regarded as unacceptable and participants identified a need for transportation assistance. Participants also expressed concerns about directly observed urine specimen collection. Finally, while most participants found the 4-week aftercare program acceptable, the need for enjoyable as well as educational content was emphasized. Revisions to the protocol taking these data into account were made to optimize the acceptability of the intervention and the implementation of the trial. Findings identified key concerns and preferences that were taken into account in the final trial protocol. In particular, financial and transportation issues were identified as critical barriers to participation, with the potential to impact both intervention uptake and trial feasibility. Results demonstrate the value of formative qualitative research for clinical trial planning and implementation, particularly in settings where little is known about acceptability of interventions or willingness to participate.
TL;DR: The authors quantifies the broad conception of organized crime in the criminal justice system and quantifies its relationship to measurement problems that trickle down to the general public, and quantified the broad notion of orga...
Abstract: Definitional problems in the area of organized crime have traditionally led to measurement problems that trickle down the criminal justice system. This study quantifies the broad conception of orga...
TL;DR: Realist evaluation research combining data signatures and theories of causal mechanism as a means of shedding light on why crime has declined in recent years strongly suggest that more and better security played a key role in the global ‘crime drop’.
Abstract: This article describes realist evaluation research combining data signatures and theories of causal mechanism as a means of shedding light on why crime has declined in recent years. A data signature is an empirical indicator of how or why something has occurred. The use of multiple signatures – a ‘dish’ – from different angles and contexts can, if they point in the same direction, result in a form of triangulation that reduces the chance of interpretive error. The signatures identified strongly suggest that more and better security played a key role in the global ‘crime drop’, and in so doing, they rebut rival hypotheses.
TL;DR: The notion of postmodern emergence is being used increasingly to frame and inform investigations into a diverse range of topics, and it is likely that this will continue as discussed by the authors. But this is not the case for all postmodern theories.
Abstract: The notion of “postmodern emergence” is being used increasingly to frame and inform investigations into a diverse range of topics, and it is likely that this will continue. Postmodern emergence off...
TL;DR: A three-level network approach to the Matthew effect as a multilevel complement to Burt’s (2005) conception of the relationship between networks and performance is presented and it is shown that, when it is present, network lift from three- level structural wings is provided by different levels for different actors.
Abstract: The article presents a three-level network approach to the Matthew effect as a multilevel complement to Burt’s (2005) conception of the relationship between networks and performance We first introduce a three-level dataset and the specificity of this data structure for explorations of cumulative advantage Second, we present a population of scientists and provide a heuristic visualization—as “paragliders”—of their position in this multilevel structure Third, we cluster these actors into groups of performance to better understand who is in a multilevel position to make progress with performance measurements over time We use Ronald Burt’s representation of the combined effect of brokerage beyond group and closure within group to show that several of these performance groups do not follow his own principles very closely
Fourth, we provide evidence, for one of these groups, of the usefulness of combining constraint in the personal network of its members with constraint in their “extended” network—that is, for looking at the relationship between performance and borrowing from “dual alters” in the extended network This shows that, when it is present, network lift from threelevel structural wings is provided by different levels for different actors Hypotheses induced by the paraglider metaphor can thus be tested progressively to provide new understandings of the structural conditions under which the Matthew effect of cumulative advantage operates
Finally, we list limitations of this three-level approach to the Matthew effect as examined here and suggest further developments for this approach
TL;DR: In this paper, the RCUK Digital Economy theme to the dot.rural digital economy hub was supported by the UK Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC) and the UK Digital Economy Hub.
Abstract: Acknowledgements This research is supported by the award made by the RCUK Digital Economy theme to the dot.rural Digital Economy Hub (award reference: EP/G066051/1) and the UK Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC) (award reference: ES/M001628/1).
TL;DR: In this paper, a range of participatory methods, relating our selves in ways that go beyond traditional interviews and interviews, are used to record the lives of marginalised people in marginalised communities.
Abstract: Recording the lives of people in marginalised communities can be enhanced through the use of a range of participatory methods, relating our selves in ways that go beyond traditional interviews and ...
TL;DR: Data quality, on average, tends to be higher for panel than intercept samples, and the results show that the completion rates are higher for the panel than the intercept sample.
Abstract: Although some research effort has been devoted to the comparison of probability- and nonprobability-based Web surveys, different types of nonprobability-based samples have not been thoroughly exami...
TL;DR: In this article, the theoretical integration of two literature streams offers a number of hypotheses tested via an empirical case study where the evolution of the interaction and influence networks across multiple decision events is compared with attribute and psychometric data of the actors.
Abstract: Dominant streams in the leadership literature conceive it either as a role within socio-political structure or as a behavioural predisposition of agents. Leadership roles are determined by decisional power, most typically related to hierarchical positions of agents and by the position of agents within socio-political networks. Leadership behaviour can be seen as the outcome of psychological predispositions of agents or by processes influenced by intricate interactions sometimes associated with theoretical concepts such as complexity. Limitations in attaining meaningful predictions of leader potential can be related to the separation of leadership as agency from leaders as agents. Social network analysis allows for the contingent examination of the two.
In this paper the theoretical integration of two literature streams offers a number of hypotheses tested via an empirical case study where the evolution of the interaction and influence networks across multiple decision events is compared with attribute and psychometric data of the actors. In this semi-experimental setting leadership emergence is studied among four groups of undergraduate students faced with a decision choice in an iterative political simulation game.
TL;DR: In this article, the use of the log-linear distance model in the assessment of homophily in a set of small groups, such as the co-participants in the same set of events, is described.
Abstract: This article demonstrates the innovative use of the log-linear distance model in the assessment of homophily in a set of small groups, such as the co-participants in a set of events. It traces the development of the application of the log-linear distance model to the study of homophily and reviews its recent use to assess the extent and structure of gender and age homophily in groups of criminal accomplices (‘co-offenders’). The transformations of the group membership data that are a prerequisite of the log-linear analysis, and the interpretation of the log-linear parameters, are explained in detail in order to make the approach accessible to potential users. Although the described applications are to gender and age homophily in groups of criminal accomplices, the method can be used to assess homophily on one or more variables in any small groups.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors propose a model called ZombieApocalypse, which relies on agent-based simulation on a dynamic network topology, and simulate three strategies common to the zombie mythology and the sociology of figurational dynamics by Norbert Elias: cutting ties, being sentimental and stigmatization.
Abstract: In this article, we propose a model that we call ZombieApocalypse and that relies on agent-based simulation on a dynamic network topology. We simulate three strategies common to the zombie mythology and the sociology of figurational dynamics by Norbert Elias: cutting ties, being sentimental, and stigmatization. The simulation results are analyzed on two dimensions: the outcome for the populations of zombies and humans as well as the resulting changes in topology. We show that the introduction of social dynamics into these models leads to unexpected outcomes. Implications for more “serious” research on general models of infection and social dynamics are discussed.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors reflect on the attempt to introduce and extend two innovative methodological considerations: social network analysis and documentary research, which is widely used but not widely used enough.
Abstract: This article reflects on the attempt to introduce and extend two innovative methodological considerations: social network analysis and documentary research. Documentary research is widely used but ...