Theory and Methods in Social Research

Praise for the first edition:

′Not merely a how-to book, it reviews the conceptual framework of research methods in the social and behavioural sciences and provides tangible stories from the field that illustrate the application of specific techniques and the process of conducting research. . . . This work affords a concise overview of qualitative and quantitative methodologies in the social science. . . . Highly recommended′ - R.V. Labaree

University of Southern California, CHOICE

Full and exhaustive with excellent examples. * drupal *
This is more than a textbook on research methods. By discussing theory and method in social research, it brings the two together in order to explain and debate key issues in conducting and designing research. The second section within chapters considers the implications of research design and presents stories from the field, and these very helpfully illuminate some of the issues introduced in the opening descriptions and explanations of the theories. This is a thought provoking and important book for aspiring and active researchers. The annotated bibliographies, further references and website details are also extremely helpful for suggesting follow up reading. -- Dr Alaster Douglas * drupal *
Easy to read and understand, and very informative. As developing, and novice, qualitative researchers this book provides a very useful insight on developing methods of analyzing discourse in applied health science work. -- Dr Anisa Vahed * drupal *
I liked the first edition of this and find the enhanced focus in the second edition which brings out the intersection of theory and methods very helpful - I will include this edition on our recommended reading for the programme. -- Dr Barbara Crossouard * drupal *
This text gives excellent coverage of many areas of social science research. A really useful introduction for students embarking on a postdoctoral course of study, answering many questions which will continue to arise as they progress through their research degree. A constantly useful companion. -- Dr Candice Satchwell * drupal *
A great book linking theory to methods, with practical examples and guidance. An interesting read for research students! -- Dr Carmen Clayton * drupal *
This is a supplemental text for M level students on the MA Early Years course. The content of the book provides students with the range of methodological choices available to them in an accessible yet stimulating format. -- Dr Gillian McGillivray * drupal *
Good range of methodologies presented in readbale form and in depth. -- Dr Linda Morrice * drupal *
This book gives student some key discussion and example of research methods in social research. -- Dr Palash Kamruzzaman * drupal *
This text was useful for the Research methods module we facilitate on the MA Creative Media course at University of Brighton -- Dr Peter Day * drupal *
This textbook was most welcome. It is engagingly written and the use of case study to back up the well targeted and detailed theoretical discussion makes this invaluable for those who are seeking to situate their research within an appropriate paradigm and to make critical judgements on the appropriateness, value and challenge of research methodologies. The new edition is an essential tool, providing a thorough overview; clear, well argued and thought provoking. -- Dr Ruth Pilkington * drupal *
I like the way the editors have woven practical advice with theoretical reflection. Great. -- Dr Sophie Gilliat-Ray * drupal *
Situates theory and methods really well. -- Dr Stephen Brown * drupal *
An impressive text that goes beyond the introductory′ level. Good coverage of essential areas, written in a student-accessible language and format -- Mr Andrew Holmes * drupal *
Well structured, useful book which I am going to recommend our students writing their thesis with us as supplemental reading. -- Mr Benjamin Bader * drupal *
For student and practitioners moving into higher learning -- Mr Geoff Gordon * drupal *
detailed analysis of theory and methods -- Mr Jeffrey Potter * drupal *
Fantastic book. With the nature of our students carrying out both qual and quant work, this book is highly recommended.

-- Mr Luke Gibson * drupal *
Another excellent research methods core text which covers key conceptual frameworks for those students developing research proposals and dissertations. -- Mr Nick Catahan * drupal *
The book is really good but more suited to higher levels of study - i.e PG. Developing PG Healthcare courses in 2021/2022 and this book will work perfectly for the programmes. -- Mr Saikou Sanyang * drupal *
A clear and comprehensive text which supports the development and understanding of research methods. -- Mrs Branwen Bingle * drupal *
Good use of theory and research methods. -- Mrs Christine Cattermole * drupal *
A great book, very informative, addressing the current issues and dilemma′s that we are facing at this moment. Very helpful. The chapters are rather short: I would have liked more of it. -- Mrs Jacqueline Swet * drupal *
An Excellent book that looks at research methods and philosophy in an engagings and interesting way. -- Mrs Jane Wood * drupal *
An excellent, well written book. It is designed to inspire and guide research practitioners in their individual fields of research. The chapters are written by experienced researchers. The book includes thorough explanations and examples of both qualitative and quantitative methodologies which helps researchers to choose the most appropriate method for them. Excellent case-studies shared, which I found useful and informative. I will recommend this book to all PGCE and degree students in our School. -- Mrs Ruth Baxter * drupal *
Recommended for Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education Practice. An excellent point of reference for key qualitative and quatitative research methodologies and methods. -- Mrs Sarah Ford * drupal *
This is a key text for several research based modules on MA in Learning and Teaching. A wide range of social science research methods are introduced which offers opportunity for researchers to make informed choices when considering methods and methodology. Each chapter presents the material in a logical sequence and format: key concepts are highlighted, the implications for research design are explored and, where applicable, illustrated with ′stories from the field′. In addition the annotated bibliography supports further investigation. -- Mrs Sarah Ford * drupal *
Accessible text for dissertation module particularly. -- Mrs Wendy Bannerman * drupal *
This is an excellent research theory and methods book for those with an initial grasp of key concepts who wish to develop their understanding and knowledge. The chapters are written in a way that enables one to ′dip into′ relevant themes when needed. This will be an essential text on the course for MA level students. -- Ms Ceri Daniels * drupal *
A sound text that supports students well within this field of study. -- Ms Clare Harris * drupal *
An excellent book that is well written explaining key concepts for the research. Highly recommended. -- Ms Eva Mikuska * drupal *
Very good for undergraduate students -- Ms Kathleen Rooney * drupal *
The wide range of perspectives is really valuable. It′s a lot to pack into one text, but its strength lies in the range of methods discussed. -- Ms Louise Sturgeon-Adams * drupal *
A fantastic book combining, the often hard to grasp, theory and research methods in an accessible way for all students. -- Ms Sam Chenery-morris * drupal *
Absolutely excellent book. I′ll be recommending it also to all the students that I′m supervising both for their bachelors and their master thesis. -- Professor Jeanette Lemmergaard * drupal *