1. In the context of any social problem you choose (for example, homelessness; racism; sexism), outline what you think to be a relevant research problem. Now discuss the following questions:

(a) How does your research topic differ from the common-sense version of your selected social problem?

(b) If your research topic sticks very closely to this common-sense version of the problem, how does it benefit from the insights of social science?

(c) If your research problem differs from how we usually see this social problem, how can your proposed research contribute to society?

2. Choose two research studies (one quantitative and one qualitative) on any social institution with which you are familiar (e.g., healthcare; organisations; law; politics; social work). Compare and contrast the contribution each makes either to (a) debates about public policy; or (b) providing new opportunities for ordinary people to make their own choices.