Research Methods: Information, Systems and Contexts - Softcover

Softcover

ISBN 10: 073461148X ISBN 13: 9780734611482

Publisher: Tilde Publishing and Distribution, 2013

Synopsis

Ideal for those undertaking research in the fields of librarianship and information management, Research Methods for Information Management and Systems: Techniques and Questions is a wide-ranging text that guides students through the literature so that they can pursue their own investigations efficiently and in greater detail.

It is structured according to key topics and divided into four parts.

Part I introduces the reader to the field of research methods, and includes Ethics.

Part II deals with the broach categories of research, such as surveys, case studies, action research, and ethnography.

Part III the focuses on techniques, including sampling, questionnaires and interview design, and focus groups.

Part IV then deals with the analysis of data, both quantitative and qualitative, and the evaluation of published research.

The final chapter then poses seven questions critical for good researchers.

About this title

About the Author:

KIRSTY WILLIAMSON is Senior Research Fellow in the School of Information Studies at Charles Sturt University in Australia. Her research focuses on human information behaviour, and the human and social aspects of ICT use. Over the past 20 years, Kirsty has been the Director of Information and Telecommunications Needs Research (ITNR), and has supervised many higher degree students. She also has a strong publishing record, both nationally and internationally.

Review:

[T]he book is a comprehensive, broad introduction to the issues of evaluation and, through the included teaching case studies and bibliography, is an excellent starting point for more advanced explorations into research methods for both the professional and academician alike.
Having in mind its vast coverage of many research issues, application areas and the sheer size, I would recommend it as a very exhaustive and professional reference book on research methods for young and mature researchers.

About this edition

• Publisher: Tilde Publishing and Distribution
• Publication date: 2013
• ISBN 10: 073461148X
• ISBN 13: 9780734611482
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 556
• Editor: Johanson Graeme, Williamson Kirsty