Political Science Research Methods

Understand the "how" and the "why" behind research in political science.

Step by step, Political Science Research Methods walks students through the logic of research design, carefully explaining how researchers choose which method to employ. The Eighth Edition of this trusted resource offers a greater emphasis on the ways in which particular methods are used by undergraduates, expanded coverage of the role of the Internet in research and analysis, and more international examples. 

New to this edition:

• Streamlined content that delivers greater clarity of concepts and a tighter focus on what matters most
• Learning objectives encourage close, focused reading and measurable takeaways
• New and updated examples of research serve as touchstones throughout the book and demonstrate a greater variety of data collection methods:
• Greater emphasis on how particular research methods are used by undergraduate students
• Expanded coverage of the role of the Internet in research and analysis
• A brand new annotated research article in Chapter 15

Janet Buttolph Johnson is associate professor of political science and international relations at the University of Delaware, where she specializes in public policy, state and local politics, and environmental policy and politics.

H. T. Reynolds is professor emeritus of political science at the University of Delaware. He is author of Governing America, with David Volger; The Analysis of Nominal Data, Second Edition; and several articles on methodology.

Jason Mycoff is associate professor of political science and international relations at the University of Delaware. His research is on American political institutions, in particular the US Congress, congressional committees, and parties.