A Critical Introduction to Social Research

Praise for the first edition:

′Henn et al mention in their introduction that their book has been "a long time in coming". The good news is that it has been time well spent′ - The Times Higher Education

This is an excellently designed textbook that guides the researcher by integrating explanations, examples, research tasks and recommended reading. The layout and writing are extremely clear, and summaries help the reader to place chapters into a context. This is a valuable resource for students and staff alike. -- Dr Alaster Douglas * drupal *
Wonderful introduction. Addresses the key ideas and issues clearly without oversimplying. -- Dr Amini Kamete * drupal *
This is a good book it gives a good grounding of social research to new researchers -- Dr Amon Simba * drupal *
This is nicely written and accessible text for postgraduate audience on a professional programme. In particular, I expect it will provide a useful theoretical resource to support the development of students′ argument on why certain approach/ method was used. I like the way the philosophical aspects of research are introduced/ discussed in the book. -- Dr Ani Raiden * drupal *
This text contains some valuable insights but lacks the kind of hands on focus my students will require. -- Dr Calum Neill * drupal *
Heritage Studies research often requires a modified social science methodology to be applied. This book provides a solid introduction to the key issues students in the field will need to consider in constructing their research questions and deciding how to address them and make sense of the data. In the absence of a specific textbook for Heritage Studies books such as this are invaluable. This text -- given to students to aid them in constructing their research -- has proved very useful in aiding the evelopment of a range of projects. -- Dr John Carman * drupal *
There are several others better known to me than this one -- Dr Katherine Gardiner * drupal *
A valuable introductary text for students on interprofessional programmes undertaking small reserach projects. -- Dr Kathryn Waddington * drupal *
A very comprehensive and practical text for new researchers. -- Dr Lynn Sayer * drupal *
The title of the book suggests that the book addresses the contemporary critical discourses in social sciences at length. In order to supplement the core reader (Social Research in Question) for the course ′Principles of Social Sciences′ by Smith, Chapter 2 of this book (Critical Social Research) is particularly useful supplement which summarizes the critical debates in social sciences in an effective and student friendly way. From Chapter 3 onwards, in my opinion, is a slight shift in the tone when more methodical approach is used to explain research strategies. As a whole it can serve as supplementary text for both courses: Principles of social science and introduction to social research, with comparatively less emphasis on the criticality aspect of social research. -- Dr Nadeem Khan * drupal *
This text enables students and practitioners to engage in critical thinking and planning in social research. Although written in a very clear and straighforward tone, A Critical Introduction to Social Research comprehensively explores the complexities that researchers encounter. -- Dr Priscilla Dunk-West * drupal *
This is a good second edition and is an improvement on the first edition. good coverage, accessible and students like it. -- Dr Simon Bradford * drupal *
An excellent companion for the researchers at all levels -- Dr Zaheer Hussain * drupal *
This is a very useful book which I currently use on the Law masters courses. It is well set out and covers useful areas for the students. it is also concisely written with good practical examples. We intend using it for further courses being developed. -- Frances Winch * drupal *
qualitative research in a business school has to be promoted rather than adopted. books you are sending are supplementing and strengthening library collection. thanks -- Maris Farquharson * drupal *
This text would be very useful for those students who are able to engage critically with issues related to research. -- Miss Alex Melrose * drupal *
This is a clear and concisely worded overview of how to do research in the social sciences. Readership level 6 and 7. -- Miss Rebecca Bolan * drupal *
A good critical introduction which I′ve recommended to my social theory students. -- Mr Alpesh Maisuria * drupal *
A good, engaging introduction to a broad range of research methods. The emphasis on critical theory is especially novel and is of great use in getting students and budding researchers to adopt a more critical approach towards the study of the social world. -- Mr Dave Merryweather * drupal *
A very clear and comprehensive student guide to research practise and theory. Of particular note is Chapter 4 dealing with Ethics in Social Research -- Mr David Orr * drupal *
This is an excellent book that provides a comprehensive and easily readable overview of contemproaray research methods. It sets out differing theorectical perspectives as well as providing more tangible and practical support and advice. The level and depth of information is appropropriate to both undergraduate and post graduate studies. -- Mr Nick Howe * drupal *
This is a very useful text for students conducting research for the first time. It is very detailed but also relatively easy to read. I found the chapter research tasks very useful. This is a great text for students and also lecturers who are tasked with preparing lectures on the subject. -- Mr Sean Creaney * drupal *
This is a thorough and comprehensive book, well suited for third year/final undergraduates and those contemplating further research or degrees -- Mr Wulf Livingston * drupal *
Not all students will undertake qualitative data collection therefore book will be suggested as a supplemental text.

Module only attracted 2 students in 2009/10 -- Mrs Jela Webb * drupal *
Some good case studies which help to embed the concepts introduced by the authors. Easy to read, clear layout too. A hit! -- Mrs Rebecca Ferriday * drupal *
A valuable source for the Dissertation Module within the BA(Hons) Early Childhood Studies and the BA(Hons)Early Years Practice Programmes which require students to have a good awareness of social research and its inherent issues and dilemmas.The interactive activities serve to contexualise these issues and help students to apply these to practice, offering a good level of reflexivity -- Mrs Roshan Asver * drupal *
A well written book which helps to guide a student throughout the journey of social research.
A useful glossary of key terms is provided which is essential for the first time researcher.
A recommended book for any student new to a research project. -- Mrs Ruth Baxter * drupal *
Excellent presentation of text and an invaluable resource for students involved in their dissertation projects and general course work. -- Ms Brigid Purcell * drupal *
I have recommended this book to our Youth and Community students taking our Practice Related Research Module. -- Ms Isabel Cartwright * drupal *
this is an interesting book which supports students understanding of social research -- Ms Marion Gallgher * drupal *
An excellent text to underpin teaching / learning on both first year undergraduate and 3rd year courses -- Ms Nicola Wiper * drupal *
I thought this book was potentially a very good book for students on my MBA programme as it offers another explanation of research methods. Some students find some books make more sense to them personally than others and therefore this book would be a useful addition to their reading list.

I thought the section on research ethics was particularly well written and I will be highlighting this to students when reviewing the reading list with them. -- Ms Rita Walsh * drupal *
Very useful section on gettng started and excellent range of issues addressed. Students will find this a very comprehensive introduction. -- Ms Tina Eadie * drupal *