Synopses & Reviews
Offering accessible examples showcasing how sociologists conduct research
Comprising 22 reading from both academic journals and books, this text presents the best examples of research methodology in contemporary and classic sociology. The editors organized the readings according to the logic of a research project. Beginning with the research question, to design, data collection and analysis, to application in the world. Each section contains an introduction, serving as a mini-textbook that guides students through the steps of their own research. Discussion questions after each section further compel students to think about the lessons they have learned.
Key Features
Real research selections show research in action that underscores the relevance for studentsCompletely intact articles emphasize how the research is part of the whole sociological enterpriseBy focusing on sociology, the works strengthen the role of the methods course in the major
This book is intended as either a core book or a secondary text, primarily for use in research methods courses in sociology.
The accompanying student study site http: //www.sagepub.com/lunestudy includes: Additional in-depth discussion questions per chapterA section of additional questions for further reviewAdditional Web links as helpful resources Journal articles related to the readings in the book An In the News section that has a real world link to topics in the book
Synopsis
This book shows students the steps involved in the research process, the various strategies for conducting a valid social inquiry, and most importantly, the persuasiveness and elegance of reliable social research. It highlights the link between academic research and the real world.
Included are carefully chosen examples of each of the major methodological techniques-survey, interviews, fieldwork observations, experiments, content analysis, secondary analysis and program evaluation. Also included are selections on sampling strategies, research ethics and both qualitative and quantitative data analysis.