Making Sense of Research: An Introduction for Health and Social Care Practitioners

′The authors are not advocating that all people need to be involved in research but certainly argue the need for practioners to develop their research skills and expertise. This text removes some of the mystique of research and would certainly encourage the practioner to explore some of the areas raised in more depth. I would consider it to be an essential text for any social and health care practioner whether they are in practice or pursuing further studies. -

Nurse Education Today, Volume 24, Issue 1, January 2004

Research is now a crucial function of health and social care practice. All professionals in these fields need to understand research and be able to apply it in their daily care. Making Sense of Research aims to demystify research by introducing the relevant and essential elements. The authors provide a foundation of research knowledge by explaining the role of research in health and social care, giving an overview of the research process and presenting a range of approaches both quantitative and qualitative. There is an emphasis on the development of critical skills and how to implement research findings in practice. Additionally, they cover ethical issues involved in research and the dissemination of evidence gained through research.

This completely revised and updated Second Edition is an invaluable introductory text for students and qualified practitioners in the health and social care professions who have no prior training or experience in the area. It includes new material on internet research, and the examples and reading lists have been fully updated.

Pam Moule is Professor Emerita at the University of the West of England, Bristol. Pam is engaged in a number of research and evaluation projects across a range of health care environments, supported by a variety of funders. Pam delivers research methods education, supervises undergraduate and masters level dissertations, and supports Doctoral students in the fields of leadership, learning and workforce. Pam has a number of publications in a range of nursing and medical journals and has published four textbooks. Pam is on the editorial board of Nurse Education Today and reviews papers for a number of nursing and health care journals.