Principles of Research Design in the Social Sciences (Social Research Today) - Hardcover

Bechhofer, Frank; Paterson, Lindsay

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0415214424 ISBN 13: 9780415214421

Publisher: Routledge, 2000

Synopsis

This practical introduction for first time researchers provides a bridge between how to conduct research and the philosophy of social science, allowing students to relate what they are doing to why. It does not provide a set of rigid recipes for social scientists as many methodology books do, rather it stimulates students to think about the issues involved when deciding upon their research design.

By discussing standard approaches to research design and method in various social science disciplines, the authors illustrate why particular designs have traditionally predominated in certain areas of study. But whilst they acknowledge the strengths of these standard approaches, their emphasis is on helping researchers find the most effective solution to their problem by encouraging them, through this familiarity with the principles of various approaches, to innovate where appropriate.

This text will prove indispensable for social science students of all levels embarking upon a research project, and for experienced researchers looking for a fresh perspective on their object of study.

About this title

About the Author:

Frank Bechofer is Professor at the Research Centre for Social Sciences at the University of Edinburgh. Lindsay Paterson is Professor in the Faculty of Education at the University of Edinburgh.

Review:

"This short book is an excellent introduction to the basic organizing principles that underlie social research design. . . . This is a well-written, nontechnical introduction to the issues that surround decision-making about research design that would be a valuable asset to the beginning social researcher."
-"Choice

About this edition

• Publisher: Routledge
• Publication date: 2000
• ISBN 10: 0415214424
• ISBN 13: 9780415214421
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 192