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Evaluating Social Science Research
An Introduction
- Thomas R Black - University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
January 1994 | 196 pages | SAGE Publications Ltd
This basic introduction assesses the meaning and validity of research in the social sciences and related fields. Thomas R. Black shows how the ability to critically read published research is essential and is different from the skills involved in undertaking research or statistical analysis. Black explains in clear and straightforward terms how students can evaluate research, with particular emphasis on research involving some aspect of measurement. This comprehensive book examines research design, data collection, and data analysis. Particular questions studied include:
o Are the questions and hypotheses advanced appropriate and
testable?
o Is the research design sufficient for the hypothesis?
o How good is the data gathered?
o Do the statistical techniques used to analyze the data support
the conclusion reached?
Social Science Research
Questions and Hypotheses
Representativeness
Data Quality
Descriptive Statistics
Statistical Inference and Correlational Studies
Statistical Inference and Experimental Designs
Controlling Variables and Drawing Conclusions
Very good explanations given of statistical tests. However the book is misnamed and it should be made clear the focus is primarily on quantitative research.
Social Science , Dublin Institute of Technology
April 22, 2013
