Learning Objectives

2.1 Explain the importance of objectivity, ethics, and operationalization in research in criminology.

2.2 Describe how crime data for the Uniform Crime Report are collected and organized.

2.3 Identify the three elements of an experiment and the importance of evidence-based research.

2.4 Discuss the benefits of and issues with survey data collection and interpretation.

2.5 State some of the challenges and advantages of participant observation studies.

2.6 Explain the utility of life histories and case studies as methods for studying crime.

2.7 List some examples of unobtrusive methods.

2.8 Summarize the importance of validity, reliability, and triangulation in research methods.