Synopses & Reviews
Synopsis
Focused on providing as full a picture as possible of what is considered to be "good" research, Research Methods in Education and Psychology explains quantitative and qualitative methods and incorporates the viewpoints of various research paradigms into the descriptions of these methods. It not only covers two of the standard paradigms (postpositivist and interpretive/constructivist) but also a relative new comer -- the emancipatory paradigm -- that is inclusive of the perspective of feminists, ethnic/racial minorities, and persons with disabilities. In each chapter, Donna M. Mertens carefully explains a step of the research process from the literature review to types of research method to analysis and reporting of quantitative or qualitative approaches. As an added plus, she includes a sample study and abstract in each chapter to illustrate the concepts discussed in that chapter.
Synopsis
Donna M Mertens not only covers two standard paradigms (postpositivist and interpretive/constructivist) but also explores the new emancipatory paradigm that is inclusive of the perspectives of feminists, ethnic/racial minorities and persons with disabilities.
In each chapter, Donna M Mertens carefully explains a step of the research process through the literature review, research method and analysis to reporting the research. Each chapter opens with examples and lists of topics to consider; contains sample studies to illustrate key ideas; has sequence steps to guide one through the research process; and has a question and answer section to elicit further reflection on the material covered.
Table of Contents
Introduction to research -- Literature review and research problems -- Experimental and quasi-experimental research -- Causal comparative and correlational research -- Survey research -- Single-case research -- Qualitative methods -- History and narrative study of lives -- Evaluation -- Sampling : definition, selection, and ethics -- Data collection -- Data analysis, interpretation, and reporting.