Research Methods in Physical Activity - Hardcover

Thomas, Jerry R.; Nelson, Jack K.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 073603692X ISBN 13: 9780736036924

Publisher: Human Kinetics, 2001

Synopsis

Researchers in the physical activity field must have a firm understanding of the research process in order to evaluate data and reach valid conclusions. Research Methods in Physical Activity, fourth edition, facilitates this understanding in a format that is both instructional and entertaining to read.

Designed for the graduate-level student enrolled in a research methods course, the text also is an excellent reference for experienced researchers wishing to hone their analytical skills as well as learn new research methods and techniques. The concepts apply to every aspect of the study of physical activity, including exercise science, kinesiology, movement studies, physical education, sport science, and sport studies.

Research Methods in Physical Activity, fourth edition, is completely revised and updated. Features of this new edition include

· expanded information on evaluating data and statistical power,
· a simplified explanation of multivariate procedures,
· a new approach to nonparametrics parallel with parametric procedures, and
· a new chapter on exercise epidemiological research.

Research Methods in Physical Activity, fourth edition, covers all aspects of the research process, from developing and defining a research problem to writing a research report. Readers will enjoy the humorous anecdotes and sketches, a reflection of the authors' belief that research reporting need not be dry and pompous; it can be entertaining.

About this title

About the Author

Jerry R. Thomas, EdD, has taught elementary physical education methods and children’s motor development for more than 30 years. Currently, he is professor and chair of the department of health and human performance at Iowa State University. Dr. Thomas was also a professor at Florida State, Louisiana State, and Arizona State Universities. He has written more than 150 published papers, including many on children’s motor skills. Dr. Thomas is former president of the American Academy of Kinesiology and Physical Education and the North American Society for the Psychology of Sport and Physical Activity. In addition, his scholarly work in physical activity has earned him the titles of C.H. McCloy Lecturer for children’s control, learning, and performance of motor skills; Alliance Scholar and the Honor Award for the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance; and Southern District AHPERD Scholar. He is a former editor of the Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport.

Jack K. Nelson is professor emeritus at Louisiana State University. For 18 years, he was the director of graduate studies in the department of health, physical education, recreation, and dance at Louisiana State University. He was also professor of education at the University of Idaho. During his career, he has been major professor for 55 dissertations and more than 45 masters’ theses. He has authored more than 80 publications. Well known for his contributions to the field, Dr. Nelson served for five years as the editor of Completed Research in health, physical education, recreation, and dance. He also served as editor of Research Works in the Journal of Physical Education, Recreation and Dance for several years.

Review

“Renowned scientists, researchers, and writers Thomas and Nelson have authored a valuable resource for beginning and advanced graduate students and professionals. Research Methods in Physical Activity contains the essential information written in an easily comprehended manner that readers will appreciate. Avoiding an anxiety-laden tone often found in books about research methodologies, the authors instead put readers at ease, then supply them with the requisite tools for reading, conducting, and utilizing research. Research Methods in Physical Activity, unique for its stylistic and inviting presentation, is a book students will both enjoy and understand. Buy two copies: one for professional use and the other to give anyone who has appreciation for scientific methodologies generously laced with intelligent humor. It is rare to find textbook authors who write both competently and with humor as Thomas and Nelson have done!”
Darrell Crase, PhD
Professor, The University of Memphis (review of the third edition)

Edition details

• Publisher: Human Kinetics
• Publication date: 2001
• ISBN 10: 073603692X
• ISBN 13: 9780736036924
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Edition number: 4
• Number of pages: 449