A Practical Guide to Behavioral Research: Tools and Techniques

This authoritative, yet accessible book presents the principal techniques of empirical behavioral research through a practical hands-on approach. The text describes four major research methods: observation, experiment, interview, and questionnaire. Additional techniques and tools such as simulation, trace and archival measures, content analysis, and case study are also presented. An extensive and up-to-date chapter describes the process of library and background research. In addition to clarifying and demystifying research, the text extends the discussion to the ethics of research, dissemination of information, public presentation, and the art of writing journal articles. The writing style is lively and straightforward, and the authors include many updated examples. This new edition also features more information about work being done outside North America. The new edition features more information on work being done outside North America, and includes many updated examples. This is an invaluable reference for anyone who is engaged in behavioral studies.

Robert Sommer is at University of California, Davis.