Which research method involves a detailed conversation for in-depth information about a person's activities?

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Prepare for the UCF SYG2000 Introduction to Sociology Exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with detailed explanations to enhance your understanding and increase your chances of success!

Fieldwork is a research method that typically involves immersive observation and direct interaction with participants to gather detailed qualitative data. In the context of sociology, fieldwork often includes conducting in-depth interviews or conversations that allow researchers to gain deeper insights into individuals' experiences, behaviors, and the context in which they live.

This method is particularly effective for exploring complex social phenomena, as it focuses on understanding participants' perspectives and the meanings they ascribe to their activities. By engaging in a detailed conversation, researchers can uncover nuances that other methods, such as surveys—which might provide quantitative data through fixed responses—may miss.

In contrast, survey research usually relies on standardized questionnaires to gather data from larger populations but lacks the depth of personal engagement found in fieldwork. Quantitative research broadly encompasses numerical data collection and statistical analysis, focusing less on detailed individual narratives. Sampling refers to the process of selecting a subset of individuals from a larger population for the purpose of study, but it does not inherently involve in-depth conversations. Therefore, fieldwork stands out as the method that specifically emphasizes obtaining in-depth information through detailed interactions with individuals.