Social research and statistics Books

Book SynopsisThe Practice of Research in Criminology and Criminal Justice, Eighth Edition continues to demonstrate the vital role research plays in criminal justice by integrating in-depth, real-world case studies with a comprehensive discussion of research methods. By pairing research techniques with practical examples from the field, Ronet D. Bachman and Russell K. Schutt equip students to critically evaluate and confidently conduct research. The Eighth Edition of this best-selling text covers new methods, such as visual criminology and photo voice, and expanded chapters with new sections on the importance of making sure samples, measurements, and methods are inclusive and sensitive to the diverse nature of our society. The authors refer to contemporary examples throughout, such as the increase in the use of social media, the continuing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, mass participation in social movements including Black Lives Matter, increasing hate crimes across the globe, and increasing incidents of mass shootings in the U.S. Table of ContentsChapter 1: Science, Society, and Research Chapter 2: The Process and Problems of Research Chapter 3: Ethical Guidelines for Research Chapter 4: Conceptualization and Measurement Chapter 5: Sampling Chapter 6: Causation and Research Design Chapter 7: Experimental Designs Chapter 8: Survey Research Chapter 9: Qualitative Methods: Observing, Participating, and Listening Chapter 10: Analyzing Content: Research Using Secondary, Historical, and Comparative Data, Content Analysis, and Visual Criminology Chapter 11: Social Network Analysis Crime Mapping, and Big Data Chapter 12: Evaluation and Policy Analysis Chapter 13: Mixing and Comparing Methods Chapter 14: Analyzing Quantitative Data Chapter 15: Analyzing Qualitative Data Chapter 16: Summarizing and Reporting Research

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Book SynopsisThis book is for people who are interested in formulating contextual theories and testing conditional or 'context-dependent' hypotheses using quantitative methods. Given the ubiquity of conditional relationships in the study of human behavior, scholars from across the social sciences will find something of value in this reading.Table of Contents1. Introduction; Part I. The Fundamentals: 2. Theories and their conditional implications; 3. Interaction model specification; 4. Interpreting quantities of interest: effects, predicted values and measures of uncertainty; 5. Three substantive applications: interpretation and presentation; Part II. More Complex Forms of Conditionality: 6. When we have more than one modifying variable; 7. When an independent variable interacts with itself; Part III. Interactions and Limited Dependent Variables: 8. Interactions and dichotomous dependent variables; 9. Interactions and ordered dependent variables; 10. Interactions and unordered dependent variables; Appendices.

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Book SynopsisDemonstrates new techniques for interpreting and applying linear statistical analysis the predominant quantitative method in the social and policy sciences. These methods will help advance substantive thinking in quantitative and mixed-method analysis throughout the social sciences and beyond.

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Book SynopsisSocial networks are ubiquitous. The science of networks has shaped how researchers and society understand the spread of disease, the precursors of loneliness, the rise of protest movements, the causes of social inequality, the influence of social media, and much more. Egocentric analysis conceives of each individual, or ego, as embedded in a personal network of alters, a community partially of their creation and nearly unique to them, whose composition and structure have consequences. This volume is dedicated to understanding the history, present, and future of egocentric social network analysis. The text brings together the most important, classic articles foundational to the field with new perspectives to form a comprehensive volume ideal for courses in network analysis. The collection examines where the field of egocentric research has been, what it has uncovered, and where it is headed.Trade Review'Much of the world thinks in terms of village-like groups and individuals, when in reality they're operating in social networks. That's why the Covid-19 virus spreads so quickly. Few people live in tight bubbles – they maneuver among overlapping partial networks of friends, family, neighbors, schools, and work. This myth-busting book is a masterpiece – brilliantly showing the impact of personal networks in our lives. Its unique format shows the path-breaking development of the network perspective – by linking classic readings and current research into community, cognition, culture, social capital, social movements, work, inequality, and social media.' Barry Wellman, FRSC'Personal Networks is an exemplary collection and a signal contribution to the field of social network analysis. The introduction provides both an overview for the novice and a synthesis that will interest even veteran network scholars. The classic works are impeccably chosen, with astute excerpting for undergraduate syllabi and substantial and definitive commentaries by leading contemporary authors. More recent classics are equally well chosen – I assign almost all of them in my graduate or undergraduate classes – and the extensive and engaging commentaries, in most cases by the original authors, represent valuable overviews in their own right. The papers in the final section likewise add value by reviewing research and developing theory on central fields of sociology to which the study of personal networks contributes. Personal Networks not only aggregates the main ideas in its area, it integrates them, defining a field and a research agenda. It will be an indispensable resource for anyone teaching a graduate or undergraduate course in social network analysis, a one-stop shopping experience for graduate students taking exams in this field, and a source of insight for any scholar working in this area.' Paul DiMaggio, NYUTable of ContentsPart I. Background; Introduction; Part II. Early Foundations; 1. From Simmel, 'On the Significance of Numbers for Social Life: Introduction,' 'The Isolated Individual and the Dyad,' 'The Triad,' and The Web of Group Affiliations: Commentary, 'Georg Simmel's Contribution to Social Network Research'; 2. From Katz and Lazarsfeld, Personal Influence: Commentary, 'Influencers, Backfire Effects and the Power of the Periphery'; 3. From Mitchell, 'The Concept and Use of Social Networks': Commentary, 'On J. Clyde Mitchell's 'The Concept and Use of Social Networks''; 4. From Bott, 'Urban Families: Conjugal Roles and Social Networks': Commentary, 'Commentary on Bott's 'Family and Social Network''; 5. From Festinger, Schachter, and Back, Social Pressures in Informal Groups: Commentary, 'Festinger, Schachter, and Back's Social Pressures in Informal Groups'; 6. From Bernard et al., 'The Problem of Informant Accuracy': Commentary, 'Implications of Informant Accuracy Research for Ego Networks'; 7. From White, Identity and Control: Commentary, 'On Parachutes and Lion-Taming'; Part III. Later Foundations; 8. From Fischer, To Dwell among Friends: Commentary, 'From the Northern California Community Study, 1977–78, to UCNets, 2015–20'; 9. From Granovetter, 'The Strength of Weak Ties': Commentary, 'Strength of Weak Ties in the Labor Market: An Assessment of the State of Research'; 10. From Wellman and Wortley, 'Different Strokes from Different Folks': Commentary, 'A Network Pilgrim's Progress: Twenty-Six Realizations in Fifty-Five Years'; 11. From Coleman, 'Social Capital in the Creation of Human Capital': Commentary, 'Three Decades of Research into Social Capital: Achievements, Blind Spots, and Future Directions'; 12. From Pescosolido, 'Beyond Rational Choice': Commentary, 'Confronting How People Cope with Crisis: From the Social Organization Strategy Framework to the Network Episode Model to the Network Embedded Symbiome'; 13. From Feld, 'The Focused Organization of Social Ties': Commentary, 'Reflections On 'The Focused Organization of Social Ties' and Its Implications for Bonding and Bridging' 14. From Burt, Structural Holes: Commentary, 'Structural Holes Capstone, Cautions, and Enthusiasms'; 15. From Laumann, Marsden, and Prensky, 'The Boundary Specification Problem in Network Analysis': Commentary, 'On the Boundary Specification Problem in Network Analysis: An Update and Extension to Personal Social Networks'; 16. From McPherson, Smith-Lovin, and Cook, 'Birds of a Feather': Commentary, 'The Enormous Flock of Homophily Researchers: Assessing and Promoting a Research Agenda'; 17. From Huckfeldt and Sprague, 'Networks in Context': Commentary, 'Individuals, Groups, and Networks: Implications for the Study and Practice of Democratic Politics'; 18. From Nan Lin, 'Building a Network Theory of Social Capital' Commentary, 'Social Capital: An Update'; 19. On the General Social Survey: 'Egocentric Network Studies within the General Social Survey: Measurement Methods, Substantive Findings, and Methodological Research'; Part IV. New Perspectives; 20. On Cognition: 'Network Representation Capacity: How Social Relationships are Represented in Human Mind'; 21. On Mobilization: 'How Actors Mobilize their Networks in Practice'; 22. On Trust: 'Self-Verification, Trust, and Social Capital Mobilization'; 23. On Dynamics: 'Personal Network Dynamics: Organizing Principles of Stability and Change from Complex Systems Theory'; 24. On Inequality: 'The Context of Network Inequality'; 25. On Culture: 'The Problem of Culture Flows in Weak Ties'; 26. On Migration: 'Personal Networks and Migration Trajectories'; 27. On Movements: 'The Opportunities and Challenges of Studying Social Movement Ego-Networks: Online and Offline'; 28. On Social Media: 'Studying Social Media from an Ego-Centric Perspective'.

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Book SynopsisIn discrete choice models the relationships between the independent variables and the choice probabilities are nonlinear, depending on both the value of the particular independent variable being interpreted and the values of the other independent variables. Thus, interpreting the magnitude of the effects (the substantive effects) of the independent variables on choice behavior requires the use of additional interpretative techniques. Three common techniques for interpretation are described here: first differences, marginal effects and elasticities, and odds ratios. Concepts related to these techniques are also discussed, as well as methods to account for estimation uncertainty. Interpretation of binary logits, ordered logits, multinomial and conditional logits, and mixed discrete choice models such as mixed multinomial logits and random effects logits for panel data are covered in detail. The techniques discussed here are general, and can be applied to other models with discrete dependTable of Contents1. Introduction; 2. Accounting for Statistical Uncertainty in Estimates of Substantive Effects; 3. Substantive Effects in Binary Choice Models; 4. Substantive Effects in Ordered Choice Models; 5. Substantive Effects in Multinomial Choice Models; 6. Interpretation of Mixed Discrete Choice Models; 7. Extensions.

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Book SynopsisAn accessible and practical guide to the use of applied regression models in testing and evaluating hypotheses dealing with social relationships, with example applications using relevant statistical methods in both Stata and R.Trade Review'This textbook on applied regression by Poston, Conde, and Field is well suited for teaching graduate students in all of the social science fields, but is especially suited for demography, population studies, and public health. It is an excellent contribution to the teaching and practice of regression analysis in the twenty-first century that also can serve as a useful reference book for practitioners.' David Swanson, University of California, Riverside'This textbook successfully combines theoretical statistical concepts and empirical research examples of applied regression models, from the basic to advanced ones. The best part is the detailed interpretations of the results of statistical analyses. Readers can truly understand the meanings and usages of these statistical numbers.' Lang-Wen Huang, Soochow University, Taipei'Applied Regression Models in the Social Sciences excels in its focus on the application and interpretation of various regression models and its inclusion of commands in Stata and R. Its sequencing and topical coverage set it apart from others in that the reader is guided through the entire research process with a multitude of examples. This will be a valuable resource to faculty, students, and applied researchers alike.' Ginny Garcia-Alexander, University of Texas at San Antonio'This textbook fills a critical void in the market for statistical tutorials by bridging the gap between elementary and advanced statistics and providing real-world examples in both Stata and R, allowing students to develop proficiency in the statistical software environments in highest demand. It strikes the perfect balance, neither oversimplifying nor overwhelming with complex mathematics, making it the ideal companion for graduate students seeking a solid foundation in the skills needed to generate social science findings with advanced insights. From correlation analysis to multi-level modeling, this comprehensive and versatile book covers a wide range of regression techniques, equipping learners with a diverse toolkit for trustworthy data analysis and allowing them to transition from the classroom to the laboratory with confidence. The authors' expertise shines through in this clear, comprehensive, and engaging book that is destined to be an indispensable resource.' Stephanie Bohon, University of TennesseeTable of ContentsList of figures; List of tables; Preface; 1. Introduction; 2. Undertaking statistical analysis using Stata; 3. Undertaking statistical analysis using R; 4. Descriptive statistics and the normal distribution; 5. Statistical tables and cross-tabulations; 6. Bivariate regression and correlation and statistical inference; 7. Multiple regression and correlation; 8. Regression assumptions and diagnostics and robust regression; 9. Missing data; 10. Issues of survey design; 11. Binomial logistic regression; 12. Ordinal logistic regression; 13. Multinomial logistic regression; 14. Count regression; 15. Survival analysis; 16. Multilevel models; 17. Other issues and final; References; Index.

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Book SynopsisMuch training in quantitative social science focuses on data analysis and fails to equip researchers with the skills to prepare the data required for this. This book is a comprehensive introduction to simple and advanced tools for data management, drawing on established concepts and techniques from computer science.Table of ContentsPart I. Introduction: 1. Motivation; 2. Gearing up; 3. Data = content + structure; Part II. Data in Files: 4. Storing data in files; 5. Managing data in spreadsheets; 6. Basic data management in R; 7. R and the tidyverse; Part III. Data in Databases: 8. Introduction to relational databases; 9. Relational databases and multiple tables; 10. Database fine-tuning; Part IV. Special Types of Data: 11. Spatial data; 12. Text data; 13. Network data; Part V. Conclusion: 14. Best practices in data management.

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Book SynopsisCritical Theory and Qualitative Data Analysis in Education offers a path-breaking explanation of how critical theories can be used within the analysis of qualitative data to inform research processes, such as data collection, analysis, and interpretation. This contributed volume offers examples of qualitative data analysis techniques and exemplars of empirical studies that employ critical theory concepts in data analysis. By creating a clear and accessible bridge between data analysis and critical social theories, this book helps scholars and researchers effectively translate their research designs and findings to multiple audiences for more equitable outcomes and disruption of historical and contemporary inequality.Trade Review"In addition to offering ways for scholars to build on existing methodologies, contributors to this volume also offer new paradigms while inviting all scholars to consider their tools…. I am encouraged by education researchers desire to transcend contrived borders and employ the methods, forms of methods, analysis, and strategic reconstruction of these forms in order to ask an entirely new set of questions."—from the Foreword by Maisha T. Winn, Chancellor's Leadership Professor, and Co-Director of Transformative Justice in Education (TJE) at the University of California- Davis, USAThis book provides critical scholars interested in paying attention to the larger social structural issues and oppression with tangible "how to’s" for critical qualitative data analysis and, in this way, encourage researchers to work toward social change. Too often data analysis processes are reductive and void of theory and, importantly, the authors fill a gap in the existing literature. This thoughtful book is useful for introductory qualitative researchers and senior scholars alike. — Penny A. Pasque, Professor and Department Head, Educational Leadership, Policy, and Human Development, North Carolina State University, USATable of ContentsContentsForeword: Reflections on Research that is Humanizing Maisha T. WinnPreface Ashley N. Gaskew, Jamile Lee-Johnson, and Rachelle Winkle-WagnerSection I The Need for Partnering Critical Theory and Data Analysis in EducationChapter 1 The Missing Link in Data Analysis: An Introduction to the Use of Critical Theory to Guide Data Analysis Rachelle Winkle-Wagner, Ashley Gaskew, and Jamila Lee-JohnsonChapter 2 The Missing InfinitePhil Frances CarspeckenChapter 3 Trouble the Translating: Border Thinking, Indigenous Knowledges, and Undoing MethodNathaniel BeckChapter 4 De-Norming the Syllabus: An Analysis Situated in Critical and Caring PedagogiesVirginia M. Schwarz Section II Critical Theory and Analysis with Marginalized Populations Section Introduction Keon M. McGuire Chapter 5 Illuminating Systemic Inequality in Educations: Using Bourdieu in Critical Qualitative Data AnalysisTangela Blakely Reavis Chapter 6 "Wanna Be Startnin’ Somethin:" Answering the Methodological "Call" To Position Complex Blackness in Conversation with Hermeneutic PhenomenologySteve D. Mobley, Jr. Chapter 7 Thinking with Queer of Color Critique: A Multidimensional Approach to Analyzing and Interpreting DataReginald A. Blockett Chapter 8 Globalization, Higher Education, and Crisis: A Model for Applying Critical Geography toward Data AnalysisChelsea A. Blackburn CohenChapter 9 Context and Materiality: Inclusive Appropriations of New Materialism for Qualitative AnalysisBarbara Dennis Section III Critical Theories and Data Analysis in Institutions and Policies Section IntroductionChristina W. Yao Chapter 10 A Culture of Values: Rethinking School Quality and Culture through Fanonian Critical TheoryJacqueline M. ForbesChapter 11 Discourse, Representation, and "Othering": Postcolonial Analysis of Donald Trump’s Education ReformMercy AgyepongChapter 12 Analyzing Policy Critically: Using Critical Race Theory to AnalyzeRachelle Winkle-Wagner, Thandi Sulè, and Dina C. Maramba Chapter 13 Habermas and Data Analysis in For-Profit Higher Education InstitutionsAshley GaskewChapter 14 Sistahs’ are Doin’ it for themselves: Using Social Media to (Re)Center Black Women’s Voices in Educational ResearchJamila Lee-Johnson and Lora HendersonAfterwordJamila Lee-Johnson, Ashley Gaskew, and Rachelle Winkle-WagnerContributor Bios

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Book SynopsisYou and Your Action Research Project is packed full of useful advice to take the reader through the various stages of an action research project. Written for practitioners across professions who are studying on work-based learning programmes and award-bearing courses, this book contains practical strategies for improving project work. Split into the following five sections; Thinking about doing a project, Getting ready to do a project, Planning a project and managing it, Doing your project, Evaluating your action research project, the structure is clearly accessible and easy-to-read, encouraging readers of cross-curricular interests from teachers, to nurses and social workers to try new approaches.This fourth edition of the best-seller has been thoroughly updated and improved, with new and up-to-date case study material from a very wide range of disciplines, greaterTable of ContentsIntroduction 1. Prologue: What do I need to know about action research? Why do I need to know it? Part I: Designing and Planning Your Text 2. Getting ready to write: designing and planning 3. What goes into your text? How do you communicate with your reader? 4. Developing communicative competence: writing for a reader Part II Writing and Producing a Text 5. Learning to be a writer: engaging with the literatures 6. Learning to produce a text: the writing process 7. How do I write an action research report or masters dissertation? Part III Reflecting and Evaluating 8. How is the quality of an action research text judged? 9. The significance of your writing 10. Where now? References

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Book SynopsisFor this the fourth volume in the successful Contemporary Social Research series, Robert Burgess has provided a new resource text which will prove invaluable to those engaged in field research. The material he has chosen is drawn both from sociology and social anthropology; and the readings come from experienced researchers both in the USA and Europe. In addition, Burgess draws upon the work of historians for a special section on the use of historical materials in field research. The focus is upon the strategies, processes and problems of work in the field. Chapters by distinguished social scientists cover gaining entry, note-taking, interviewing and observing. Material on data collection is complemented by discussion of data analysis and theorising. The readings themselves are subdivided into nine sections. The first essay in each section is written by Burgess himself in order to locate the articles in a broader context and to highlight the key issues and the important questions. BurgTrade Review'Robert Burgess is to be congratulated on putting together such a useful collection ... the end product is, for teaching purposes, probably the best.' - SociologyTable of Contents1 Approaches to Field Research Section One: Starting Field Research 2 Early Field Experiences 3 Procedures for Demarcating a Field of Study 4 Methodological Issues in the Study of Bureaucratic Elites: A Case Study of West Point 5 Launching a Neighbourhood Study in an African Town Section Two: Field Roles and Field Problems 6 Some Role Problems in Field Research 7 Participant Observers 8 The Participant Observer as a Human Being: Observations on the Personal Aspects of Fieldwork 9 The Making of a Female Researcher: Role Problems in Fieldwork 10 The Problem of Ethical Integrity in Participant Observation Section Three: Sampling Strategies in Field Research 11 Elements of Sampling in Field Research 12 Sampling in Ethnographic Fieldwork 13 Time Sampling as a Field Technique 14 The Key Informant Technique: A Non-Ethnographic Application Section Four: Conversations in Field Research 15 The Unstructured Interview as a Conversation 16 Interviewing in Field Research 17 The Life Study: On Mutual Recognition and the Subjective Inquiry Section Five: Historical Sources and Field Research 18 Personal Documents, Oral Sources and Life Histories 19 Local History and Oral History 20 The Study of Life History 21 Anthropology and the Discipline of Historical Context

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Book SynopsisFirst published Open Access under a Creative Commons license as What is Inclusive Research?, this title is now also available as part of the Bloomsbury Research Methods series.This book describes and defines inclusive research, outlining how to recognize it, understand it, do it, and know when it is done well. In doing so it addresses the areas of overlap and distinctiveness in relation to participatory, emancipatory, user-led and partnership research as well as exploring the various practices encompassed within each of these inclusive approaches. The author, Melanie Nind, focuses on how and why more inclusive approaches to research have evolved. She positions inclusive research within the key debates and shifts in policy, defines key ideas and terms, discusses the contested nature of inclusive research and illustrates a range of approaches using exemplars. The aim is to discuss the range of challenges involved and to examine the degree to which these challengTrade ReviewExcellent guide to this developing area of research. Essential for students undertaking this kind of study. * David Preece, University of Northampton, UK *Table of ContentsSeries Editor Foreword 1. Inclusive Research Defined 2. Inclusive Research as an Evolving Set of Practices 3. Stories from the Field 4. Criticisms and Defenses 5. Summary and Where Next Further Reading References Index

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Book SynopsisFully revised for the third edition, this popular text provides an advanced yet accessible introduction to the tools, terminology and research perspectives that students need to know in order to engage in academic debate and successfully complete research-based assignments. It first explores the language and nature of research, before developing readers' understanding of different research methods and the role of theory in research. Chapters are complemented by examples, boxed summaries of key ideas and suggestions for further reading. This text will be an essential resource for advanced undergraduates and postgraduates of all disciplines. New to this Edition:- Includes new examples and material on managing the research processTrade ReviewProvides a clear and practical guide to the tools and terminology of research which will be invaluable for advanced undergraduate and postgraduate students. * Wyn Grant, University of Warwick, UK *This excellent book provides a uniquely clear and concise introduction to research – in particular its often confusing terminology. It is also my own go-to reference when I feel I need a refresher on some of the basics. * Rob Ackrill, Nottingham Trent University, UK *There is no other book which provides students with such a student-friendly guide to the building blocks of contemporary research. * Andrew Holmes, University of Hull, UK *The two appendixes include a summary of the research process stages and a glossary of research terms. The text is concise … The writing style and degree of difficulty is challenging in some places but appropriate for the target audience. Summing Up: Recommended. Advanced undergraduates through faculty and professionals. * B. G. Turner, Choice, Vol. 56 (9) *Table of ContentsIntroduction 1. The Nature of Research 2. The 'Nuts and Bolts' of Research 3. Getting Started in Research 4. The Building Blocks of Research 5. Introducing the Key Research Paradigms 6. The Types and Uses of Theory in Research 7. Introducing Research Methods 8. Academic Standards, Plagiarism and Ethics in Research 9. Conclusion: Summary of Key Points Appendix 1: Stages of the Research Process Appendix 2: Glossary of Research Terms Bibliography Index.

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Book SynopsisSuch diverse thinkers as Lao-Tze, Confucius, and U.S. Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld have all pointed out that we need to be able to tell the difference between real and assumed knowledge. The systematic review is a scientific tool that can help with this difficult task. It can help, for example, with appraising, summarising, and communicating the results and implications of otherwise unmanageable quantities of data. This book, written by two highly-respected social scientists, provides an overview of systematic literature review methods: Outlining the rationale and methods of systematic reviews; Giving worked examples from social science and other fields; Applying the practice to all social science disciplines; It requires no previous knowledge, but takes the reader through the process stage by stage; Drawing on examples from such diverse fields as pTrade Review"The book is noteworthy in terms of its comprehensive coverage of issues and inclusive perspective with respect to study inclusion, study quality assessment and findings synthesis. The guide’s ecumenical’ perspective is certainly a strength inasmuch as different readers will find inspiration and interesting suggestions on how to conduct different types of SR." (Political Studies Review, May 2009)Table of ContentsForeword (William R. Shadish). Acknowledgments. Preface. Chapter 1: Why do we need systematic reviews? Chapter 2: Starting the review: Refining the question and defining the boundaries. Chapter 3: What sorts of studies do I include in the review? Deciding on the review's inclusion / exclusion criteria. Chapter 4: How to find the studies: The literature search. Chapter 5: How to appraise the studies: An introduction to assessing study quality. Chapter 6: Synthesising the evidence. Chapter 7: Exploring heterogeneity and publication bias. Chapter 8: Disseminating the review. Chapter 9: Systematic reviews: Urban myths and fairy tales. Glossary. Appendix 1: The review process (and some questions to ask before starting a review). Appendix 2: MOOSE Guidelines. Appendix 3: Example of flow diagram from a systematic review. Appendix 4: Example data extraction form. Appendix 5: Variations in the quality of systematic reviews. Bibliography. Index.

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Book SynopsisThis is the perfect book for any student new to Research Methods. It is brilliantly written, witty, and always easy to understand. Taking as her starting point the need for students to conduct research for themselves in the 'real world', Zina O'Leary guides those new to research through the whys and how-tos of the entire research process. Always student-focused, this book offers a hands on and practical guide to the research process from the initial process of coming up with a good question, via methods of gathering information, through to the writing process itself. Researching Real-World Problems: - Makes the entire research process a meaningful experience - Provides a jargon-busting hands-on guide to the entire research process - Is illustrated throughout with real-life examples - Speaks directly to the needs of the new researcher - Locates the researcher and research process at heart of a complex web of socTable of ContentsPART ONE: ORIENTATION TO RESEARCHING REAL-WORLD PROBLEMS Researching Real-World Problems PART TWO: LAYING FOUNDATIONS From Real Problems to Researchable Questions Preparing to Research Real-World Problems Striving for Integrity in the Research Process The Quest for `Respondents′ Selecting Appropriate Data Collection Methods PART THREE: RESEARCHING PROBLEMS Understanding Problems The Quest for Solutions Research that Moves from Knowledge to Action Evaluating Change PART FOUR: MAKING MEANING/MAKING A DIFFERENCE Analyzing and Interpreting Data Producing Research `Deliverables′

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Book SynopsisAn undergraduate dissertation is your opportunity to engage with geographical research, first-hand. But completing a student project can be a stressful and complex process. Your Human Geography Dissertation breaks the task down into three helpful stages: Designing: Deciding on your approach, your topic and your research question, and ensuring your project is feasible Doing: Situating your research and selecting the best methods for your dissertation project Delivering: Dealing with data and writing up your findings With information and task boxes, soundbites offering student insight and guidance, and links to online materials, this book offers a complete and accessible overview of the key skills needed to prepare, research, and write a successful human geography dissertation.Trade ReviewThis excellent new text guides students carefully, intelligently and sympathetically through the process of doing a human geography dissertation. It offers grounded advice - from the question of what a dissertation is, to the mechanics of data analysis - which will be indispensable for students researching the full diversity of topics covered by contemporary human geography. The insights, advice and reflections from both previous students and academic staff who currently teach human geography add valuable insights that will both reassure students and help them avoid making common mistakes. -- Peter KraftlThis book will be an invaluable read for all Human Geography dissertation students. It conveys the excitement and possibilities of Human Geography research, whilst also alerting the reader to its challenges and pitfalls. This is certainly not a generic ‘how to do your dissertation’ textbook; instead it engages with Human Geography as a discipline and the role of the dissertation student as a producer of geographic knowledge. The book’s clear sections on designing, doing and delivering your dissertation, have useful examples, include input from the author’s students themselves, making this an accessible and comprehensive text. -- Katie WillisKim Peters has written a much needed book that will be of great value to Geography students undertaking what is often the most challenging part of their degree, the dissertation. As a Geography lecturer I have often wished that a book such as this existed. Your Human Geography Dissertation goes way beyond a standard examination of the pros and cons of different research methods, covering a range of topics from the identification of dissertation subjects and the development of research questions through gathering data and writing up. It is a readable and highly accessible text full of helpful detail, practical advice and useful examples. Thank you Kim! -- Jo LittleThis book is fantastic! It is recommended reading for our second-year research design course, and I have used some of the ‘dissertation tips’ videos in lectures on this course during 2018/9. For my own dissertation students in supervision meetings, this book is my core recommendation of a text that will help students with their whole human geography dissertation journey. -- Dr Sarah MillsOf all the books that I recommend to my dissertation students, this book is always the first. Writing a dissertation is a daunting task, certainly the most demanding and challenging part of a degree, and Kim Peters, with her accessible style and useful and highly relevant advice, makes it a bit less intimidating. Your Human Geography Dissertation guides students through all the stages of their dissertation, helping them to think geographically, refine their research question and choose the appropriate research methods. This book is so recent but already feels like a classic. -- Dr Filippo MengaTable of Contents1. Your human geography dissertation: An introduction SECTION 1: DESIGNING YOUR HUMAN GEOGRAPHY DISSERTATION 2: Starting Out: identifying your approach 3: Getting Going: finding a topic 4: The next step: developing your research question 5: Final preparations: is your project workable? SECTION 2: DOING YOUR HUMAN GEOGRAPHY DISSERTATION 6: Doing reflexive research: situating your dissertation 7: Making research happen: the methods glossary 8: More on methods: approaching complex social worlds 9: Selecting your methods: how to make the right choices SECTION 3: DELIVERING YOUR HUMAN GEOGRAPHY DISSERTATION 10: Dealing with data: approaching analysis 11: Writing up: where to start and how to finish 12: The last hurdle: final considerations

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Book SynopsisEncouraging critical consideration of research design, the book guides readers step-by-step through the process of planning and undertaking a research project based on documentary analysis. It covers selecting a research topic and sample through to analysing and writing up the data.Table of ContentsIntroduction PART I: GETTING GOING Working productively Working with your supervisor Working ethically Working reflexively and safely PART II: MAKING DECISIONS Reviewing literature and writing your literature review Finding sources Choosing an analysis approach Writing research questions and your methods chapter PART III: GETTING IT DONE! Collecting and analysing data and writing your results chapter Assessing data quality and writing your discussion chapter Creating the final dissertation Concluding remarks

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Book SynopsisWith case studies from around the world, this accessible book explores the methodological complexities of research into voluntary action, charitable behaviour and participation in voluntary organisations.Table of Contents1. Introduction - Eddy Hogg and Jon Dean 2. (Un)suitable methods and reflexive considerations: an interview and focus group study of youth volunteering - James Davies 3. Interpretive ethnography: a UK charity shop case study - Triona Fitton 4. Collaborative philanthropy and doing practically relevant, critical research - Angela Eikenberry and Xiaowei Song 5. Peer research: co- producing research within the context of voluntary and community action – Ellen Bennett 6. Charity advertising: visual methods, images and elicitation - Abhishek Bhati and Jon Dean 7. Using archives and objects in voluntary action research - Georgina Brewis 8. Using Mass Observation as a source of qualitative secondary data for interdisciplinary longitudinal research on voluntary action - Rose Lindsey 9. Investigating meanings and messages on volunteering through television media – Kimberly Wiley 10. Annual reporting in voluntary organisations: opportunities for content analysis research - Carolyn Cordery and Danielle McConville 11. Researching risk in the voluntary sector: the challenges and opportunities of regulatory data - Diarmuid McDonnell and Alasdair C. Rutherford 12. Exploring the benefi ts of volunteering: combining survey and administrative data in the Nordic ‘laboratory’ – Hans-Peter Y. Qvist 13. Spatial approaches to the voluntary sector – James Bowles 14. Restudies, surveys and what counts as volunteering - Jon Dean and Diarmuid Verrier 15. Conclusion - Jon Dean and Eddy Hogg

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Book SynopsisWhat is educational research? What are its current approaches, methods and methodologies? How should existing literature be reviewed and evaluated critically? What are the key philosophical debates in and on educational research? How should research in education be conducted and how should it be presented? And what is the value of such research?With this extensively revised edition of a much-admired and engaging guide, Jerry Wellington provides clear and constructive answers to these questions, complete with detailed advice on methods such as interviewing, surveys, documentary research and the use of focus groups. Thoroughly overhauled and updated, this edition includes new case studies, helpful theory summary' boxes, and a range of activities or points to ponder' to foster engagement with current issues. Retaining the clarity and concision of the previous edition, and its approachable and practical style, Jerry Wellington provides an invaluable text for all those engaged in educatiTrade ReviewFor the novice or aspiring researcher in education, this volume ... provides a well-wrought introduction to very many important issues in the field. It is written in an accessible, often first-person style ... [and] is well organized ... The inclusion of many clear summary tables, figures, and boxes throughout the book is a real bonus ... [A]s far as it goes it is first class. * Educational Research and Evaluation *I've always recommended Educational Research as a key text for my students at all levels because of its clarity and scope. This excellent new edition brings it right up to date for a new generation of researchers with its incisive coverage of research technology and current methodological debates. * Susan Wallace, Emeritus Professor of Education, Nottingham Trent University, UK *This highly readable book provides an authoritative account of the methods and methodology used within educational research that is thoughtfully underpinned by an introduction to key theoretical perspectives. It usefully recommends examples of educational research for further study and even has useful comments on common writing mistakes. This is a book that students in higher education will find invaluable. * Gordon Joyes, Associate Professor in eLearning, University of Nottingham, UK *A sophisticated and accessible introduction to educational research. Textbooks are rarely compelling, but this one has a fascination to it that stems from the way it draws out a whole range of issues and contexts. * Peter Kahn, Educational Developer, University of Liverpool, UK *This is a very good introduction to educational research methods. It takes the researcher through the nuts and bolts of designing a research project, as well as enabling them to see their project in a wider methodological framework. The text is accessible throughout and is supported by well-chosen examples of research. * Michael Hammond, Associate Professor and Director of Education Research Students at the University of Warwick, UK *This is a very useful book outlining educational research methods and techniques. It is underpinned by accessible content for readers of all abilities and it is current and up to date - with welcome recognition about undertaking educational research in an increasingly digitally accessible world. * David Wooff, Edge Hill University, UK *Table of ContentsAcknowledgements Notes on Contributors of Case Studies Introduction: Using This Book Part I: Issues and Approaches 1. An Overview to Educational Research 2. Varying Approaches to Researching Education 3. Reviewing the Research Literature 4. Being Critical and Reflexive: Principles and Practice 5. The Researcher's Role and Responsibility Part II: Methods and Their Limits 6. Interviewing 7. Case Study 8. Survey Research 9. Documentary Research and Analysis 10. Other Methods for the Researcher Part III: Analysing, Presenting and Disseminating 11. Dealing with Qualitative Data 12. Writing and Publishing 13. What's the Use of Educational Research? Appendices Glossary of Terms References and Further Reading Index

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Book SynopsisIn Template Analysis, Nigel King and Joanna Brookes guide you through the origins of template analysis and its place in qualitative research, its basic components, and the main strengths and limitations of this method. Practical case studies and examples from published research then guide you through how to use it in your own research project. Ideal for Business and Management students reading for a Master's degree, each book in the series may also serve as a reference book for doctoral students and faculty members interested in the method. Part of SAGE's Mastering Business Research Methods, conceived and edited by Bill Lee, Mark N. K. Saunders and Vadake K. Narayanan and designed to supportresearchers by providing in-depth and practical guidance on using a chosen method of data collection or analysis. Table of ContentsChapter 1: Introduction Chapter 2: Philosophical Issues When Using Template Analysis Chapter 3: Doing Template Analysis: A Guide to the Main Components and Procedures Chapter 4: Case Examples of the Use of Template Analysis Chapter 5: The Use of Template Analysis in Published Research: The Careers Literature as an Exemplar Chapter 6: Strengths and Limitations of Template Analysis

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Book SynopsisDesigning Social Research is a uniquely comprehensive and student-friendly guide to the core knowledge and types of skills required for planning social research. The authors organize the book around four major steps in social research – focusing, framing, selecting and distilling – placing particular emphasis on the formulation of research questions and the choice of appropriate 'logics of inquiry' to answer them. The requirements for research designs and proposals are laid out at the beginning of the book, followed by a discussion of key design issues and research ethics. Four sample research designs on environmental issues illustrate the role of research questions and the application of the four logics of inquiry, and this third edition includes new material dedicated to social research in a digital, networked age. Fully revised and updated, Designing Social Research continues to be an invaluable resource to demystify the research process for advanced undergraduate and graduate students. Together with the authors' Social Research: Paradigms in Action and Blaikie's Approaches to Social Enquiry, it offers social scientists an informative guide to designing social research.Trade Review‘A masterclass in the logic of anticipation when designing social research. Blaikie and Priest explain the choices to be made – and, oh so important, why those decisions need thoughtful planning in advance. I can’t recommend it enough.’Rosalind Edwards, University of Southampton, Co-director of the ESRC National Centre for Research Methods ‘This book reviews the key principles of research design and strategy in ways that blend theoretical sophistication with practical strategic advice: a winning formula. If you produce your research design using this book, and if you really engage with the key issues that Blaikie and Priest write so authoritatively about, you can’t go wrong.’Jennifer Mason, University of ManchesterTable of ContentsIntroduction 1 About the book 2 Preparing Research Designs 3 Four Research Design Tasks 4 Research Ethics Part 1: Focussing 5 Research Questions and Purposes Part 2: Framing 6 Logics for Answering Research Questions Part 3: Selecting 7 Concepts, Theories, Hypotheses and Models 8 Types, Forms, Sources and Selection of Data Part 4: Distilling 9 Methods for Answering Research Questions: Data Gathering, Generation, Reduction and Analysis Researching Networked Worlds 10 Design Considerations 11 Ethics Considerations Illustrations 12 Sample Research Designs Postscript

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Book SynopsisIntroducing eight analytical approaches that are key to successful social science research, this book helps you get to grips with theory and apply it to qualitative analysis. With two ‘matched chapters’ dedicated to each approach, it provides a balance between theory and analytical method. The first chapter grounds the approach in theory and the second uses real-world examples to show how to conduct your own analysis using the approach. Drawing on the contributing authors’ wealth of experience, the book: · Highlights how analysis relates to the entire research process and helps you position your analysis within the larger context of your research · Provides a strong, theoretical foundation for building good qualitative analysis · Guides you through translating theory into real-world practice in your own research Detailed, clear and accessible, this book is perfect for students who want to understand the theory behind qualitative analysis before conducting their own research, or develop their understanding of specific approaches. Trade ReviewAn excellent introduction to qualitative research approaches which will be invaluable for Education researchers and students. -- Endorsement - Shirley LarkinThis book is the most comprehensive overview of approaches to analysis in qualitative research that I have seen. It is easy to read and would be well suited for undergraduates or any professionals who wish to use qualitative methods. -- Carrie ChildsA rich book that makes you really think about the crucial questions of doing qualitative research. Finally a book that enlightens the black box of qualitative research. -- Willem KoetsenruijterThis volume emphasizes methodology as an analytical approach. In so doing it seeks to bridge the methods/theory divide by providing sound guidelines for conducting research. This is a welcome and much-needed resource for advanced social sciences students and the experienced researcher. -- Kjell Erling KjellmanThis book is essential reading for social science students and researchers seeking to understand the nuances of different approaches to qualitative research design and analysis. It’s unique merging of theory and practice in relation to eight key approaches sets it apart from other volumes. -- Bernadine BradyTable of ContentsChapter 1: Analysing qualitative data in the social science - Margaretha Järvinen and Nanna Mik-Meyer Chapter 2: Symbolic interactionism as analytical tradition - Margaretha Järvinen Chapter 3: Symbolic interactionism, stigma, and othering - Nanna Mik-Meyer Chapter 4: Phenomenology as qualitative methodology - Michael Gill Chapter 5: Phenomenological analysis and the relationship between researcher and field - Anne Roelsgaard Obling Chapter 6: Hermeneutics – theory and methods - Nils Gilje Chapter 7: Interpretation, prejudice and the hermeneutic circle - Søren Kristiansen Chapter 8: Critical realism as qualitative method - Lee Martin Chapter 9: Critical realism: Philosophical and methodological considerations - Amber Fletcher Chapter 10: Grounded Theory – main characteristics - Kathy Charmaz Chapter 11: Sampling and conceptualization in Grounded Theory - Catherine Colon Chapter 12: Narrative Analysis: An integrative approach - Michael Bamberg Chapter 13: Narrative analysis – thematic, structural, performative - Tea Torbenfeldt Bengtsson & Ditte Andersen Chapter 14: Michel Foucault’s discourse analysis - Kaspar Villadsen Chapter 15: Critical discourse analysis - Teun A. van Dijk Chapter 16: Actor-network theory as analytical approach - Lise Justesen Chapter 17: Actor-network theory and qualitative interviews - Jakob Demant and Signe Ravn

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Book SynopsisIf you are working in a time-sensitive context, need to deliver research findings so they can be used to inform decisions, or are finding it difficult to access research funding for long-term qualitative research, this book will help you. Introducing ‘rapid qualitative research’, it demonstrates how you can conduct high quality qualitative research within time, access and resource constraints. The book uses real world examples to illustrate the benefits and challenges of using rapid qualitative research designs. Focusing on the when, why and how, it explains the difference between cutting corners and making quick, well-informed research choices that support rigorous, credible research. Key features of the book include discussion questions and exercises for you to reflect on and apply your learning, as well as two case study chapters of real-world research so you can see rapid research in action. Written by the world’s leading expert on this subject, this book contains the theoretical and practical nuts and bolts you need to reframe existing qualitative methods, speed up your research, and make tangible contributions to your field. It is the perfect companion for any researcher, final-year undergraduate or postgraduate student looking to conduct rapid, but rigorous, qualitative research.Trade ReviewAn introduction to Rapid Qualitative Research combines evidence-based research rigor with research practicality. The book is an essential toolkit to help researchers find rapid and sound solutions using qualitative research. -- Cristina GonzalezThis book is essential to anyone that wants to start with rapid qualitative research. It is full of useful examples and exercises that help the reader to engage and apply the method to their research. -- Daniela Mardones-BravoVindrola-Padros has created an essential resource for methodologists, applied researchers, and social scientists alike. This well-written introductory text provides coverage of a number of important issues and techniques to help readers design and carry out rapid qualitative research. -- Thurka SangaramoorthyThe Covid-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance and value of conducting rapid qualitative research to inform decision-making and to support the timely strategic response to the pandemic. The book is therefore very timely to help researchers implement rapid qualitative studies. -- Jeremy HorwoodTable of ContentsChapter 1: Introduction Chapter 2: A brief overview of rapid qualitative research approaches Chapter 3: Designing rapid qualitative studies Chapter 4: Data collection in rapid qualitative research Chapter 5: Data analysis and interpretation Chapter 6: Challenges and practicalities of rapid qualitative research Chapter 7: Dissemination and the use of findings Chapter 8: Case study 1: A rapid appraisal of healthcare workers’ experiences of care during COVID-19 Chapter 9: Case study 2: A rapid service evaluation of programmes to support children with learning disabilities Chapter 10: The future of rapid qualitative research

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Book SynopsisFrom the vantage point of forty years in social research and the study of families, Julia Brannen offers an invaluable account of how research is conducted and ‘matters’ at particular times. This fascinating work covers key developments in the field that remain of vital concern to society and demonstrates how social research is an art as well as a science – a process that involves craft and creativity.Table of ContentsBeginnings and biography The research environment Mothers and the labour market Inside the household A generational lens on families and fathers Children and young people in families Families through the lens of food Life stories: Biographical and narrative analysis In conclusion

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Book SynopsisIntroduction chapter is available Open Access under CC-BY-NC-ND licence. This groundbreaking reader is designed to lower the barriers to interdisciplinarity and transdisciplinarity in research. Edited by experienced researchers from a range of different fields, it paves the way for future scholarship and effective research collaborations across disciplines. Chapters offer extracts from key academic texts on topics such as the design, funding, evaluation and communication of research, providing those new to the field with a thorough grounding. They highlight examples of interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary triumphs – and challenges. Concluding each chapter is a commentary provided by practitioners from diverse backgrounds, many of whom are themselves developing new approaches to inter- and transdisciplinarity. The book is: • the first ever comprehensive reader for interdisciplinarity and transdisciplinarity; • essential reading for those seeking to become effective collaborative researchers; • complete with concise introductions, extracts, commentary and further reading in each chapter. This is a much-needed primer that improves our understanding of the characteristics of interdisciplinarity and transdisciplinarity, unlocking their exciting potential in research and teaching within and beyond academia.Table of ContentsForeword: Why Should We Care about Interdisciplinarity and Transdisciplinarity? - Jane Ohlmeyer Introductory Essay: Shaping Interdisciplinary and Transdisciplinary Research - Bianca Vienni-Baptista, Isabel Fletcher and Catherine Lyall 1. Understanding Interdisciplinary and Transdisciplinary Research 2. Developing Collaborative Conditions 3. Co-Creating a Research Project 4. Funding Collaborative Research 5. Evaluating Interdisciplinary and Transdisciplinary Research 6. Communicating Interdisciplinary and Transdisciplinary Research Findings 7. Improving Research Skills 8. Supporting Collaborative Researchers 9. Developing a Career in Interdisciplinary and Transdisciplinary Research Epilogue - Bianca Vienni-Baptista, Catherine Lyall and Isabel Fletcher

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Book SynopsisThe student-focused guide to grounded theory, this book takes you step by step through the whole research process, from creating a research proposal to sharing your findings. Packed with tools to help you understand how grounded theory can be applied at each stage of your research project, the book includes: •Interactive activities and critical thinking questions in every chapter so you can put your knowledge into practice •Case studies written by a wide variety of researchers so you can learn how to navigate real world research from people who have been in your shoes •Templates and checklists to help guide your writing and ensure you don’t miss a step in the research process. Clear, accessible and applied, this book will help you get to grips with the philosophy of grounded theory, understand the nuts and bolts of designing and carrying out your research project, and manage any hurdles along the way. Explore the accompanying online resources, which include PowerPoint slides, additional templates, and weblinks to videos and journal articles relevant to the key concepts in each chapter. Table of ContentsPreparing For Grounded Theory Research Introducing Grounded Theory Philosophical Perspective In Grounded Theory Quality Grounded Theory Processes And Products Planning A Successful Grounded Theory Study Thinking Like A Grounded Theorist Proposing Your Grounded Theory Research Managing Yourself And Others In Grounded Theory Research Producing Grounded Theory Generating And Collecting Data Data Analysis In Grounded Theory From Analysis To Theory Maximising Grounded Theory Impact

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Book SynopsisApproaches to Mixed Methods Research focuses on the choices social scientists make when designing a study that mixes quantitative and qualitative data. Authors Lisa D. Pearce and Jessica Halliday Hardie explore ways to weave together strands of research using qualitative and quantitative data to speak to and enhance each other; a strand being a series of steps involved in collecting and analyzing a single type of data. The result, they show, is a more holistic body of evidence that emerges, and they illustrate this with examples from a wide range of studies from the United States and other countries.

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Book SynopsisAction Research is an invaluable guide to both novice and experienced researchers from a diversity of disciplines, backgrounds, and levels of study for understanding how action research works in real-life contexts. The Fifth Edition builds on the experiences of the authors by acknowledging the dramatic changes taking place in our everyday lives, including developments of social and digital media that have become central to modern life. Author Ernest T. Stringer and new co-author Alfredo Ortiz Aragón aim to provide a meaningful methodology arising from their extensive field experience for both students and practitioners. Presenting research that produces practical, effective, and sustainable outcomes to real-world problems, Action Research helps students see the value of their research in a broader context, beyond academia, to effecting change on a larger scale. Additional resources can be found at the authors’ website Table of ContentsSECTION I: An Introduction to Action Research Chapter 1: Understanding Action Research Chapter 2: Theoretical Foundations of Action Research SECTION II: Action Research Practices and Processes Chapter 3: Setting the Stage: Initiating an Action Research Process Chapter 4: Look: Generating and Gathering Data Chapter 5: Think: Reflecting and Analyzing Chapter 6: Act: Implementing Practical Solutions SECTION III: From Local to Global—Action Research for Social Change Chapter 7: Reporting: Informing Stakeholders and Other Audiences Chapter 8: Developmental Approaches to Social and Organizational Change Chapter 9: Action Research and Digital Media Appendix: Case Examples of Formal Reports References Index

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Book SynopsisDo you want to learn R? This book is built on the premise that anyone with a bit of free time and a healthy curiosity can learn to use R in their studies or at work. The authors focus on using R to do useful things like writing reports, creating data and graphs, accessing datasets collected by others, preparing data, and conducting simple data analysis. In this book you’ll learn how to: install R and RStudio®, and set up an RStudio® project and folders; write an essay with graphs based on simple real-world data using R Markdown; create variables from everyday numeric information and visualize data through ­five types of charts—bar plot, histogram, pie chart, scatter plot, and time series line plot—to identify patterns in the data; write and run R programs, and prepare your data following the tidyverse approach; import external datasets into R, install R data packages, and carry out initial data validity checks; conduct exploratory data analysis through three exercises involving data on voting outcomes, natural resource consumption, and gross domestic product (GDP) via data visualization, correlation coeffi­cient, and simple regression; and write a research paper on the impact of GDP per capita on life expectancy using R Markdown. Student-friendly language and examples (such as binge-watched shows on Netflix, and the top 5 songs on Spotify), cumulative learning, and practice exercises make this a must-have guide for a variety of courses where data are used and reports need to be written. Code and datasets used to carry out the examples in the book are available on an accompanying website.Table of ContentsPreface Why Should You Learn R Too? Who Should Read This Book? What Does This Book Hope to Achieve? What Is in This Book? How Can You Use It? What Is Unique About This Book? Acknowledgments About the Authors CHAPTER 1 • Making Preparations: Software Installation and Project Setup 1.1 Introduction 1.2 How to Download and Install R for Windows 1.3 How to Download and Install R for Mac 1.4 Downloading and Installing RStudio 1.5 Setting Up a Project in RStudio 1.6 Creating Folders Under a Project 1.7 Summary 1.8 References CHAPTER 2 • Writing Your Essay Using R Markdown: Something for Everyone 2.1 Introduction 2.2 The Pros of Using R Markdown 2.3 How to Create an R Markdown File 2.4 How to Write and Format Text in R Markdown 2.5 A Simple Example of an R Markdown Document 2.6 Other Useful Formatting Tricks 2.7 How to Use R Markdown for a Writing Assignment: A Bare-Bones Example 2.8 How to Revise and Improve Your Bare-Bones Essay 2.9 For More Ambitious Readers 2.10 Exercise: Turning Knowledge Into Results 2.11 Summary 2.12 References CHAPTER 3 • Creating Data and Graphs in Your Essays 3.1 Introduction 3.2 Bar Plot I: Graphing the Winners of a Hot Dog Eating Contest 3.3 Bar Plot II: Graphing Winning Lottery Numbers in Texas Pick-3 3.4 Pie Chart: Graphing the Composition of Daily Plays Among Top 5 Songs on Spotify 3.5 Histogram: Graphing the Distribution of LSAT Scores in a Review Class 3.6 Scatter Plot: Graphing the Relationship Between Two Variables— Gas Mileages in the City and on the Highway 3.7 Time Series Plot: Graphing the Changing Pattern of YouTube Video Views 3.8 Useful Tips: Polishing and Exporting Graphs 3.9 Summary 3.10 References CHAPTER 4 • Preparing Your Data 4.1 Introduction 4.2 Writing and Running a Program in R 4.3 Creating Variables and Forming a Dataset 4.4 Manipulating Data Using the dplyr Package 4.5 Chaining Different Data Manipulation Operations: pipe (%>%) 4.6 Missing Values in R: NA 4.7 Summary 4.8 References CHAPTER 5 • Accessing Datasets 5.1 Introduction 5.2 Setting Up an RStudio Project 5.3 Downloading a Dataset 5.4 Installing R Packages for Data Importing 5.5 Importing a Downloaded Dataset in RStudio 5.6 Using R Data Packages: A Simple Example With gapminder 5.7 Using R Data Packages: A More Advanced Example With wbstats 5.8 Using R Data Packages: Finding More R Data Packages 5.9 Where Can You Find More Data? 5.10 Summary 5.11 References CHAPTER 6 • Exploratory Data Analysis: Three Exercises 6.1 Introduction 6.2 Exercise 1: Reporting Results of the 2016 Presidential Primary in King County, Washington 6.3 Exercise 2: Human Use of Natural Resources: Consumption and Biocapacity 6.4 Exercise 3: Exploring the Impact of GDP per Capita on Life Expectancy 6.5 Summary 6.6 References CHAPTER 7 • Writing Your Research Paper Using R: Analyzing the Effect of Economic Development on Life Expectancy

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Book SynopsisConceptual Frameworks for Giftedness and Talent Development explores current and enduring theories and comprehensive models of giftedness and talent development. Each chapter: Includes a description of the model, theory, or framework. Shares the most important implications of each model, including underrepresentation and social justice issues. Includes discussion questions for use with students and professionals. The editors also consider common issues across conceptual frameworks, such as the degree to which achievement defines giftedness, the goal of gifted education, and the role of psychosocial factors. This is a comprehensive reference for scholars and practitioners in the field, as well as those studying at the graduate level.

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Book Synopsis'Subtle and compelling.' Observer'One of the best books of 2021.' The TimesAre we in the middle of a generational war? Are Millennials really entitled 'snowflakes'? Are Baby Boomers stealing their children's futures? Are Generation X the saddest generation? Will Generation Z fix the climate crisis?Revealing and informative, The Generation Divide provides a bold new framework for understanding the most divisive issues raging today: from culture wars to climate change and mental health to housing. Including data from all over the globe, and with powerful implications for humanity's future, this big-thinking book will transform how you view the world.Previously published as Generations. Trade ReviewA subtle and compelling book * Will Hutton, Observer *Excellent... explodes stereotypical intergenerational myths * Financial Times *Essential for anyone who truly wants to understand our world. * Julia Gillard, former Prime Minister of Australia *Engaging and vital. Anyone trying to understand social change has to distinguish the effects of generations, periods and ages. * Steven Pinker, Professor of Psychology, Harvard University, and author of Enlightenment Now *Startling, witty and erudite. This is a must-read, complete analysis of our times - a portrait of the way we live now in all its changing confusions down the generations. Read this to explode the myth of manufactured generational wars. * Polly Toynbee, Guardian columnist *Indispensable... Bobby Duffy is among the most creative and prolific generational analysts anywhere in the world. * Robert Putnam, Professor of Public Policy at Harvard University *Eye-catching and compelling. To get a reliable glimpse of the future it is essential to have clear picture of the present. Generations does it better than anything I've seen in recent years. * Trevor Phillips, former Chair of The Commission for Equality and Human Rights *Excellent. Duffy convincingly and comprehensively punctures the myths around generations that have pigeon-holed people for decades. * Dame Margaret Hodge, former Chair of the Public Accounts Committee *Brilliant. Duffy has built a powerful toolkit for understanding the forces and relationships that shape the world we live in - and the one our children will inherit. * Rafael Behr, Guardian Columnist *The most comprehensive, compelling and careful account for how and why the generations diverge, come together and can better connect. * Danny Dorling, Professor of Geography, Oxford University *One of the best books of 2021 * The Times *A truly brilliant and engaging explanation of a new way to think about how and why we're changing. Duffy picks clever and often amusing examples to illustrate his analysis, while he also recognises the important concerns we all have about the future and our place in it. * Dame Louise Casey, former Director General of the Department for Communities and Local Government *This important book deserves our attention. Duffy casts new light on the endlessly fascinating issue of what links the generations and how they differ. * Lord David Willetts, author of The Pinch *An insightful read for those interested in understanding changing social attitudes and behaviour, and most importantly Duffy helps to bust damaging myths about generational stereotypes. * Independent *Table of Contents1: The Question of Our Generation 2: Stagnation Generation 3: Home Affront 4: Reaching Higher, Falling Flat 5: Happy Now 6: A Healthy Future? 7: The Sex Recession, Baby Bust and Death of Marriage 8: Manufacturing a Generational Culture War 9: Constant Crises 10: Consuming the Planet 11: Us and Them 12: The End of the Line?

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Book SynopsisThis book explores the experiences of working-class women undergraduates at three universities in the North of England. The author examines the women’s identities, choices and emotions in relation to higher education; and how they reframe their constrained university choices to maximise their chances of academic success. Highlighting differences in working-class women’s learner identities, caring commitments and quests for upwards social mobility, the book offers an understanding of working-class female student journeys and their mixture of compromise, uncertainty and hope. It will be of interest and value to scholars of working-class women students, widening participation, and sociologists of education.Table of ContentsChapter 1. Introduction.Chapter 2. Women’s university education: history and policy.Chapter 3. The Study.Chapter 4. Deciding to go to university.Chapter 5. Learner identities.Chapter 6. Balancing Acts.Chapter 7. Stepping stones.Chapter 8. Conclusion.

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Book SynopsisThis textbook is a comprehensive guide for students interested in using participatory research to improve people’s health and well-being. It is especially designed for those working in the fields of health and social welfare who are embarking on participatory research for the first time. It covers all phases in participatory research from “getting started,” to “acting for change,” “continuing the journey” and “articulating impact.” Its unique format helps readers understand the essence of participatory research as a comprehensive approach for doing research which is underpinned by a set of fundamental values.The many real life examples of participatory research projects from around the world inspire readers to find creative ways to manage their own research while opening up new horizons in their work. Trade Review“The intended audience is undergraduate and postgraduate students, doctoral researchers, academics, and practitioners in the health and social sciences. … it is laid out nicely and chapters are very clearly defined.” (Julie K Weibel, Doody's Book Reviews, July 05, 2019)Table of ContentsChapter 1. Making the Case: The Arguments for Participatory Research.- Chapter 2. Framing: The Search for a Lens of Understanding.- Chapter 3. Getting Started: The Initiation of a Partnership.- Chapter 4. Shaping: The Co-creation of a Research Design.- Chapter 5. Organizing: Making Plans Together.- Chapter 6. Acting for Change: The Generation of Transformative Action.- Chapter 7. Engaging: The Choice and Use of Participatory Methods.- Chapter 8. Sense Making: The Process of Data Analysis and Interpretation.- Chapter 9. Telling and Showing: The Shared Decisions About Dissemination.- Chapter 10. Capturing and Reflecting for Change: The Generation of Impact.- Chapter 11. Continuing the Journey: The Quest for Sustainable Partnerships.- Chapter 12. Epilogue: Bringing the Threads Together.

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Book SynopsisIn this book, basic statistical knowledge is conveyed in an understandable and application-oriented manner. The readers should be enabled to carry out their own empirical evaluations and to understand or critically reflect on existing analyses.The third edition is extended by a detailed chapter on the logic of significance tests.A replication syntax for the statistical program Stata is provided online as supplementary material.Table of ContentsOn the task of empirical social research and quantitative data analysis in the sociological research process.- On the data situation: own data collections or secondary analyses.- First steps of data analysis: preparation, data description and bivariate correlations.- Significance test.- Linear regressions.- On the logic of data analysis: which evaluation strategy fits best to my research question.- Logistic regressions.- An outlook on advanced statistical analysis methods.

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Book SynopsisKnowings and Knots presents a range of interdisciplinary perspectives on the methodology of research-creation and asks how those who make knowledge think about and value it. Not just a method but a site of ongoing experimentation around what counts as knowledge, research-creation is a meeting place of academia, artistic creation, and the wider public. The contributors argue that academic institutions and funders must recognize research-creation as innovative knowledge-making that leaps over the traditional splitting of theory from practice while considering how gender/feminist studies, Indigenous practices, and new materialism might inform and develop the conversation. Through this book, readers can transform the way they experience both art and education. Contributors: Carolina Cambre, Owen Chapman, Paul Couillard, T.L. Cowan, John Cussans, Randy Lee Cutler, Petra Hroch, Rachelle Viader Knowles, Natalie Loveless, Glen Lowry, Erin Manning, Sourayan Mookerjea, Natasha Myers, Simon Pope, Stephanie Springgay, Sarah E. TrumanTrade Review"The editor and authors engage themselves, each other, and wider communities creating a wealth of intricate insights, understandings, and possibilities about research-creation... Knowings and Knots promotes research-creation discourse and contributes to research discussions and debates in 21st century universities. Its value to K-12 educational environments, teachers, and teacher educators comes from persons sharing ideas about arts and humanities research-creation here." -- Robert C. Kleinsasser, The Journal of Educational Research, July 2020"This book opens up to the doing and undoing involved in the generation of research-creation, the makings of new forms of knowledge, and what it is to work at the interstices -- the interstices of thinking-feeling, of bodies, human, nonhuman, entangling with places and other communities, ecologically." -- Jennifer Clarke, The Journal for Artistic Research, July 2020Table of ContentsPreface | Natalie Loveless Foreword | Owen Chapman First pairing 1 | Open and Wide: Figuring Digestion as Research-Creation (Provocation) Randy Lee Cutler 2 | Tasting Notes: Gastroenterological Ecologies and Working Knowledges (Response) Petra Hroch Second Pairing 43 | From No-ing to Knowing, from Naughts to Knots (Provocation) Paul Couillard 75 | Crisis of Literacies: How Does the Orchid Cite the Bee? (Response) Carolina Cambre Third pairing 97 | Anthropologist as Transducer in a Field of Affects (Provocation) Natasha Myers 127 | Intermedia Research-Creation and Hydrapolitics Counter-Environments of the Commons (Response) Sourayan Mookerjea Fourth pairing 161 | Provoking Failure: Un-Settling a Research-Creation Framework (Provocation) Glen Lowry 191 | Collaboration, Dialogues, and Wild Knowledge (Response) Rachelle Viader Knowles Dialogues 211 Research-Creation as Interdisciplinary Praxis Natalie Loveless in Conversation with Erin Manning 221 The Intimacies of Doing Research-Creation Sarah E. Truman in Conversation with Natalie Loveless, Erin Manning, Natasha Myers, and Stephanie Springgay 251 Demonstrating the Ineffable: Paul Couillard in Conversation with T.L. Cowan 265 Special Investigations Randy Lee Cutler in Conversation with John Cussans 277 “Dear Simon…” Letters back and forth, between Simon Pope, Glen Lowry, and Rachelle Viader Knowles on Creative Practice–Led Research 299 Afterwords: Research-Creation and the University in Knots Natalie Loveless 305 Contributors 313 Index

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Book SynopsisIn Seeking a Research-Ethics Covenant in the Social Sciences, Will C. van den Hoonaard chronicles the negative influence that medical research-ethics frameworks have had on social science research-ethics policies. He argues that the root causes of the current ethics disorder in the social sciences are the aggressive audit culture in universities and the privilege accorded to medical research ethics. Van den Hoonaard charts the unique history of research ethics in sociology and anthropology and provides a detailed plan for how to unshackle research ethics in the social sciences from medical frameworks. Central to this plan is an insistence that covenantal ethics be embedded in the professional training of researchers in the social sciences. Based on decades of study, advocacy, and engagement with research-ethics policy at all levels, with a chapter by Marco Marzano (University of Bergamo), the book will be of interest to scholars, policy makers, and administrators who seek to support the full potential of social science research.Trade Review"Will C. van den Hoonaard makes a bold and important contribution to research on ethics in social science disciplines. I believe it will inform productive discussions in university ethics committees as well as being of interest to readers exploring broader questions about how the production of knowledge can or should be regulated." Fiona Nicoll, Professor, University of AlbertaTable of ContentsAcknowledgements Preface 1 | The Climate of Research-Ethics Review in the Social Sciences 2 | A Robust Audit Culture and Its Aversion to Diversity 3 | The Capture of the Social Sciences by the Medical Ethics Framework 4 | The Anthropological Stance in Ethical Research 5 | Sociology and the New Ethics Disorder (by Marco Marzano) 6 | Current Debates in the Research-Ethics Community 7 | Towards a New Approach in the Social Sciences Appendix: The New Brunswick Declaration on Ethics in Research Notes References Index

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"The author has masterfully balanced careful explanations of the quantitative theory with the practical computer implementation of the methods applied to real world data sets. . . . That Quantitative Social Science: An Introduction is carefully written, detailed, and interactive makes it useful either as a textbook for a lecture course or for self-study. . . . I highly recommend the book to anyone looking for an introduction to data science."---Jason M. Graham, Mathematical Association of America ReviewsTable of ContentsList of Tables xiii List of Figures xv Preface xvii 1 Introduction 1 1.1 Overview of the Book 3 1.2 How to Use this Book 7 1.3 Introduction to R 10 1.3.1 Arithmetic Operations 10 1.3.2 Objects 12 1.3.3 Vectors 14 1.3.4 Functions 16 1.3.5 Data Files 20 1.3.6 Saving Objects 23 1.3.7 Packages 24 1.3.8 Programming and Learning Tips 25 1.4 Summary 27 1.5 Exercises 28 1.5.1 Bias in Self-Reported Turnout 28 1.5.2 Understanding World Population Dynamics 29 2 Causality 32 2.1 Racial Discrimination in the Labor Market 32 2.2 Subsetting the Data in R 36 2.2.1 Logical Values and Operators 37 2.2.2 Relational Operators 39 2.2.3 Subsetting 40 2.2.4 Simple Conditional Statements 43 2.2.5 Factor Variables 44 2.3 Causal Effects and the Counterfactual 46 2.4 Randomized Controlled Trials 48 2.4.1 The Role of Randomization 49 2.4.2 Social Pressure and Voter Turnout 51 2.5 Observational Studies 54 2.5.1 Minimum Wage and Unemployment 54 2.5.2 Confounding Bias 57 2.5.3 Before-and-After and Difference-in-Differences Designs 60 2.6 Descriptive Statistics for a Single Variable 63 2.6.1 Quantiles 63 2.6.2 Standard Deviation 66 2.7 Summary 68 2.8 Exercises 69 2.8.1 Efficacy of Small Class Size in Early Education 69 2.8.2 Changing Minds on Gay Marriage 71 2.8.3 Success of Leader Assassination as a Natural Experiment 73 3 Measurement 75 3.1 Measuring Civilian Victimization during Wartime 75 3.2 Handling Missing Data in R 78 3.3 Visualizing the Univariate Distribution 80 3.3.1 Bar Plot 80 3.3.2 Histogram 81 3.3.3 Box Plot 85 3.3.4 Printing and Saving Graphs 87 3.4 Survey Sampling 88 3.4.1 The Role of Randomization 89 3.4.2 Nonresponse and Other Sources of Bias 93 3.5 Measuring Political Polarization 96 3.6 Summarizing Bivariate Relationships 97 3.6.1 Scatter Plot 98 3.6.2 Correlation 101 3.6.3 Quantile-Quantile Plot 105 3.7 Clustering 108 3.7.1 Matrix in R 108 3.7.2 List in R 110 3.7.3 The k-Means Algorithm 111 3.8 Summary 115 3.9 Exercises 116 3.9.1 Changing Minds on Gay Marriage: Revisited 116 3.9.2 Political Efficacy in China and Mexico 118 3.9.3 Voting in the United Nations General Assembly 120 4 Prediction 123 4.1 Predicting Election Outcomes 123 4.1.1 Loops in R 124 4.1.2 General Conditional Statements in R 127 4.1.3 Poll Predictions 130 4.2 Linear Regression 139 4.2.1 Facial Appearance and Election Outcomes 139 4.2.2 Correlation and Scatter Plots 141 4.2.3 Least Squares 143 4.2.4 Regression towards the Mean 148 4.2.5 Merging Data Sets in R 149 4.2.6 Model Fit 156 4.3 Regression and Causation 161 4.3.1 Randomized Experiments 162 4.3.2 Regression with Multiple Predictors 165 4.3.3 Heterogenous Treatment Effects 170 4.3.4 Regression Discontinuity Design 176 4.4 Summary 181 4.5 Exercises 182 4.5.1 Prediction Based on Betting Markets 182 4.5.2 Election and Conditional Cash Transfer Program in Mexico 184 4.5.3 Government Transfer and Poverty Reduction in Brazil 187 5 Discovery 189 5.1 Textual Data 189 5.1.1 The Disputed Authorship of The Federalist Papers 189 5.1.2 Document-Term Matrix 194 5.1.3 Topic Discovery 195 5.1.4 Authorship Prediction 200 5.1.5 Cross Validation 202 5.2 Network Data 205 5.2.1 Marriage Network in Renaissance Florence 205 5.2.2 Undirected Graph and Centrality Measures 207 5.2.3 Twitter-Following Network 211 5.2.4 Directed Graph and Centrality 213 5.3 Spatial Data 220 5.3.1 The 1854 Cholera Outbreak in London 220 5.3.2 Spatial Data in R 223 5.3.3 Colors in R 226 5.3.4 US Presidential Elections 228 5.3.5 Expansion of Walmart 231 5.3.6 Animation in R 233 5.4 Summary 235 5.5 Exercises 236 5.5.1 Analyzing the Preambles of Constitutions 236 5.5.2 International Trade Network 238 5.5.3 Mapping US Presidential Election Results over Time 239 6 Probability 242 6.1 Probability 242 6.1.1 Frequentist versus Bayesian 242 6.1.2 Definition and Axioms 244 6.1.3 Permutations 247 6.1.4 Sampling with and without Replacement 250 6.1.5 Combinations 252 6.2 Conditional Probability 254 6.2.1 Conditional, Marginal, and Joint Probabilities 254 6.2.2 Independence 261 6.2.3 Bayes' Rule 266 6.2.4 Predicting Race Using Surname and Residence Location 268 6.3 Random Variables and Probability Distributions 277 6.3.1 Random Variables 278 6.3.2 Bernoulli and Uniform Distributions 278 6.3.3 Binomial Distribution 282 6.3.4 Normal Distribution 286 6.3.5 Expectation and Variance 292 6.3.6 Predicting Election Outcomes with Uncertainty 296 6.4 Large Sample Theorems 300 6.4.1 The Law of Large Numbers 300 6.4.2 The Central Limit Theorem 302 6.5 Summary 306 6.6 Exercises 307 6.6.1 The Mathematics of Enigma 307 6.6.2 A Probability Model for Betting Market Election Prediction 309 6.6.3 Election Fraud in Russia 310 7 Uncertainty 314 7.1 Estimation 314 7.1.1 Unbiasedness and Consistency 315 7.1.2 Standard Error 322 7.1.3 Confidence Intervals 326 7.1.4 Margin of Error and Sample Size Calculation in Polls 332 7.1.5 Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials 336 7.1.6 Analysis Based on Student's t-Distribution 339 7.2 Hypothesis Testing 342 7.2.1 Tea-Tasting Experiment 342 7.2.2 The General Framework 346 7.2.3 One-Sample Tests 350 7.2.4 Two-Sample Tests 356 7.2.5 Pitfalls of Hypothesis Testing 361 7.2.6 Power Analysis 363 7.3 Linear Regression Model with Uncertainty 370 7.3.1 Linear Regression as a Generative Model 370 7.3.2 Unbiasedness of Estimated Coefficients 375 7.3.3 Standard Errors of Estimated Coefficients 378 7.3.4 Inference about Coefficients 380 7.3.5 Inference about Predictions 384 7.4 Summary 389 7.5 Exercises 390 7.5.1 Sex Ratio and the Price of Agricultural Crops in China 390 7.5.2 File Drawer and Publication Bias in Academic Research 392 7.5.3 The 1932 German Election in the Weimar Republic 394 8 Next 397 General Index 401 R Index 406

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Book Synopsis To become informed consumers of research, students need to thoughtfully evaluate the research they read rather than accept it without question. This second edition of a classic text gives students what they need to apply critical reasoning when reading behavioral science research. This second editionupdates the original text with recent developments in research methods, including a new chapter on meta-analyses. Part I gives a thorough overview of the steps in a research project. It focuses on how to assess whether the conclusions drawn in a behavioral science report are warranted by the methods used in the research. Topics include research hypotheses, sampling, experimental design, data analysis, interpretation of results, and ethics. Part II allows readers to practice critical thinking with a series of fictitious journal articles containing built-in flaws in method and interpretation. Clever and engaging, each article is accompanied by a commentary that points Trade Review“This volume provides a valuable background for the skills students must develop to be good consumers and producers of research.” —ChoiceThis volume provides a valuable background for the skills students must develop to be good consumers and producers of research. * Choice *Table of ContentsForward Introduction. Why Psychologists and Professionals in Related Fields Need to be Critical Thinkers Overview of the Chapters Who Will Find This Book Useful?Part I. Principles of Critical Thinking 1. Seeking Trustworthy Knowledge 2. Research Questions and Hypotheses 3. Research Variables and Strategies 4. The Sample 5. Confounding Variables and Their Control 6. Research Designs and Threats to Internal Validity 7. Manipulation and Measurement Validity 8. Data Analysis, Discussion, and Conclusions 9. Inferences, Conclusions, and the Research Report 10. Research Syntheses and Meta-Analysis 11. Research EthicsPart II. Critical Thinking Using Practice Articles Practice Article 1. Use of Counselor “Street Talk” to Stimulate Self-Disclosure of Inner-City Youths Practice Article 2. Treatment of Flying Phobia: Comparative Efficacy of Two Behavioral Methods Practice Article 3. The Effect of Divorce on Sons’ Aggression Practice Article 4. Dyslexia in Fifth-Grade Girls: Personality and Perceptual Factors Practice Article 5. Time Estimation: Effect of Depression and Pleasantness or Unpleasantness of an Experience Practice Article 6. Bossiness in Firstborn Girls Practice Article 7. Effect of Context Upon Accuracy of Recall of Affective Experiences Practice Article 8. The Effects of Medication and Cognitive Behavior Therapy on Insomnia Practice Article 9. Midlife Crises of Men at Age 50 Practice Article 10. Effect of Job Stress and Stress Management on Low Back Pain Practice Article 11. Evaluation of Health Maintenance Organizations Practice Article 12. Effects of Jury Selection Consultation on Trial Outcome Practice Article 13. Contingency Reinforcement in the Treatment of Talking Aloud to Self: A Single-Case Study Practice Article 14. The Effect of Race of Examiner on IQ Scores of American Indians Practice Article 15. Social Effects of Tax Deadline Practice Article 16. Comparative Effectiveness of Teacher Management Styles in a Fifth-Grade Classroom Practice Article 17. Age Differences in Gullibility: A Meta-Analysis Epilogue Glossary References Index About the Authors

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Book SynopsisIn this book, Scott D. Churchill introduces readers to existential phenomenological research, an approach that seeks an in-depth, embodied understanding of subjective human existence that reflects a person's values, purposes, ideals, intentions, emotions, and relationships.Table of ContentsSeries Foreword—Clara E. Hill and Sarah Knox 1. Conceptual Foundations of Existential Phenomenological Research The “Human Science” Approach as a Way of Seeing What Is the Key Insight of Existential Phenomenology? Summary 2. Getting Started: Selecting an Experience to Study Formulating a Research Question Summary 3. Collecting the Data Attending to Ethical Considerations Selecting Participants Developing an Experiential “Approach” to Data Collection Data-Generating Activities 4. First Phase of Data Analysis: Focusing on Moments Within the Whole Doing Psychology Phenomenologically Mentoring EPR in the Classroom: Training the Research Team Summary 5. Second Phase of Data Analysis: Comprehensive Synthesis Individual Structural Description: A Comprehensive Synthesis General Structural Description: The Intuition of Essential Meaning Summary 6. Writing the Research Report Introduction Section Method Section Results Section Discussion Section Summary 7. Conclusions The Place of Phenomenology Within the Qualitative Tradition Achieving Methodological Integrity Strengths, Limitations, and Future Directions Appendix: Exemplar Studies References Index About the Author About the Series Editors

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Book SynopsisUnlike other athletes, the rock climber tends to disregard established norms of style and technique, doing whatever she needs to do to get to the next foothold. This figure provides an apt analogy for the scholar at the center of this unique book. In Rocking Qualitative Social Science, Ashley Rubin provides an entertaining treatise, corrective vision, and rigorously informative guidebook for qualitative research methods that have long been dismissed in deference to traditional scientific methods. Recognizing the steep challenges facing many, especially junior, social science scholars who struggle to adapt their research models to narrowly defined notions of "right," Rubin argues that properly nourished qualitative research can generate important, creative, and even paradigm-shifting insights. This book is designed to help people conduct good qualitative research, talk about their research, and evaluate other scholars' work. Drawing on her own experiences in research and life, Rubin provides tools for qualitative scholars, synthesizes the best advice, and addresses the ubiquitous problem of anxiety in academia. Ultimately, this book argues that rigorous research can be anything but rigid.Trade Review"In this utterly refreshing account, Rubin makes the research process fun again. By deconstructing the limits we place upon ourselves as qualitative researchers, this book opens up new pathways for rigorous, empirical research that is grounded in thoughtful and reflective processes. Those new to the field and those seeking to build confidence or rethink their strategies will benefit from this readable and inspiring guide." -- Sarah Lageson * author of Give Methods a Chance *"Rocking Qualitative Social Science is Ashley Rubin's love letter to her fellow dirtbaggers—we DIY-minded scholars who ask unconventional questions, find and forge new ways to untangle complex social problems, and obsessively track down leads and explore unusual spaces. Packed with useful advice for every stage of the research process, Rubin's methodological mixtape celebrates the robust community of gritty, dedicated investigators and storytellers pushing social science forward." -- Joshua Page, Associate Professor of Sociology and Law * University of Minnesota *Table of ContentsContents and Abstracts1Introduction to Dirtbagging chapter abstractThis chapter introduces the Dirtbagging approach to qualitative social science research. The chapter lays out the main themes and arguments of the book, contrasting the Dirtbagging approach to the traditional approaches, and argues that there is no One Right Way of doing research. It also introduces rock climbing as the major motif for the book and what we can learn from rock climbers. 2Topo: What Exactly Are Qualitative Methods? chapter abstractThis chapter tries to define qualitative methods, while discussing some of the difficulties with the most common ways to define them. We begin with a rundown of the typical methods of qualitative data collection but note that qualitative data can also be quantitatively analyzed. We then review a lot of the traditional ideas or even stereotypes about qualitative methods, pointing out that they have been repeatedly challenged lately. Consequently, the easy markers of qualitative methods recited in various texts no longer hold up very well. Finally, we discuss when qualitative methods are appropriate and what type of research they let you do. 3Picking Your Proj: Identifying Your Research Question chapter abstractThis chapter seeks to do four things. First, it describes the role of research questions in the larger research process. Second, and building on that first discussion, this chapter dispels some misconceptions about research questions, especially what counts as a research question and why people disagree about this. Third, the chapter discusses strategies for coming up with a research question. Finally, it identifies some of the secrets about research questions relating to challenges and opportunities that can arise, particularly when you are Dirtbagging about in the field. 4On Belay: Connecting Your Work to an Anchor chapter abstractThis chapter discusses how to anchor your work to the academic literature. Importantly, even though there is a lot of advice out there on how to do this, much of it is unhelpful. So this chapter discusses some of the key ways in which people tend to evaluate research—not so much in its nitty gritty details of research design and analysis, but in terms of whether your entire project is worthwhile. I maintain that you can pretty much make any project valuable, but you have to be able to do certain things to convince people of your project's worth. If you can't do those things, then maybe it's not actually a good project. 5Mapping out the Route: How and When Research Design Matters chapter abstractThis chapter is the first of three chapters on research design. Research design is how you explain or justify your decisions about how to collect and analyze your data. Your explanation may not actually be what guided your decisions (the conventional idea of research design is that it takes place before you collect and analyze your data). But your ability to defend your choices is key to how we evaluate research. This chapter addresses general things about planning and executing your research, such as whether you want to map everything out carefully ahead of time or play it by ear. Keeping these things in mind—not necessarily acting on them immediately but letting them inform your decisions—will lead to a better project. 6Starting on the Right Foot: Making and Justifying Your Case Selection chapter abstractThis chapter reviews the various considerations that go into case selection, which everyone has to do (whether you think you do or not). We start with some strategies for figuring out how to select a case if you are in the design phase and don't know which case(s) to choose. Then we turn the various types of cases we use in social science; each type of case comes with its own justifications for why you might choose this case and not that case. Thinking about these justifications can also remind you about the limits of the type of case you have selected and thus what you can (and can't) claim with your study. The type of case you choose will substantially impact what you can do with your project and what type of relationship your study will have with existing theories. 7Flaking out the Rope: How to Check Your Sample chapter abstractThis chapter examines the issues you need to think about carefully when it comes to your data collection. For starters, we discuss how you decide what data to actually collect. Next, we return to one of the banes of a qualitative scholar's existence: the question of how much data are enough; but rather than worrying about what other people think is the answer to this question, we will answer it on our own terms. Finally, we talk about what you can do to really think through the limitations of your data and how to make your project stronger. Skipping these steps can (justifiably) open you up to criticism. Doing them carefully will protect you against some bad falls. 8Bivvy Time: The Fieldwork Model of Data Collection chapter abstractThis chapter discusses the process of collecting data in "the field," which I define broadly to include any place you collect your data. I have adopted this ethnographic language because it provides a broadly useful model, even for those of us doing online or archival research. In this chapter, I review the specific strategies fieldworkers use that I have found useful in my work. Some readers, who have never conducted ethnographies, will recognize these strategies, because the strategies are not unique to ethnographers. Most of the non-ethnographic methods texts I have come across have not said much about the mundane realities of data collection, while this is something at which ethnographers excel. 9The Crux: Content Analysis, Analytic Memos, and Other Tricks chapter abstractThis chapter discusses the central tools you will need as a qualitative social scientist to analyze your data. While there are certainly more advanced analysis tools, content analysis (open and focused coding) and analytic memos (notes to yourself with varying degrees of analysis) will get you through most projects. Designed and perfected by ethnographers, these tools are once again broadly applicable, whether you are conducting formal interviews, using archival data, or reviewing websites and online documents. They allow you to systematically review your data and keep track of the many insights your mind will be swimming with as you do so. 10Placing Pro: Making Causal Claims with Qualitative Data chapter abstractThis chapter discusses the tricks and tools you can use to establish causal claims and, ultimately, to give yourself—and your audience—confidence that you aren't just making shit up. The more of these tricks you use, the more confidence you will have. I think of it like climbers laying down pro—the more nuts and cams you embed on the wall, the less likely it is that you will plummet to the ground if you miss a handhold and fall. One piece of pro might pop out if it's poorly placed or there's some loose rock, but if you have several pieces placed, you're still safe. Likewise, the more of these extra steps you take, the more confidence you can have—and if you are wrong, the more you can be forgiven for believing you had it right. 11Living on the Sharp End: Dealing with Skeptics of Qualitative Research chapter abstractQualitative scholars frequently face skepticism about their ability to produce high-quality research—and in sufficient amounts. There are many implicit critiques of qualitative methods vis-á-vis quantitative methods when it comes to things like defining qualitative methods (Chapter 2) or making causal inference (Chapter 10). Underlying these critiques are basic misconceptions—on the part of not only critics but also over-eager qualitative researchers—about qualitative methods' inherent limitations. (Bad qualitative research is, sadly, one contributor to these misconceptions.) So part of learning about qualitative methods requires understanding common critiques of qualitative methods, both so you can be prepared to defend your choice of methods and so you can defend against rote critiques. 12The Sweeper chapter abstractThis chapter summarizes the Dirtbagging approach to qualitative social science and revisits why having a flexible, inclusive approach to qualitative research is beneficial for everyone.

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Book SynopsisCreative and diverse approaches to ethnographic knowledge production and writing Ethnographic research has long been cloaked in mystery around what fieldwork is really like for researchers, how they collect data, and how it is analyzed within the social sciences. Naked Fieldnotes, a unique compendium of actual fieldnotes from contemporary ethnographic researchers from various modalities and research traditions, unpacks how this research works, its challenges and its possibilities. The volume pairs fieldnotes based on observations, interviews, drawings, photographs, soundscapes, and other contemporary modes of recording research encounters with short, reflective essays, offering rich examples of how fieldnotes are composed and shaped by research experiences. These essays unlock the experience of conducting qualitative research in the social sciences, providing clear examples of the benefits and difficulties of ethnographic research

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