Principles of Methodology
Research Design in Social Science
In this intelligent and accessible book, Perri 6 and Chris Bellamy explore the relationship between the philosophical principles of the social sciences and the methods at our disposal to study the social world. They examine how we can design achievable and valid research projects by looking closely at the choices that all researchers and students face when designing a research project.
Much of the existing literature glosses over the often difficult inter-relationship between practical research design and the theoretical underpinnings of methodology. However, this text addresses such issues head on, and in the process helps the reader to better understand each stage of the research process.
Coverage includes:
" How do we ask valid research questions?
" How do we develop a research design to best answer our questions?
" What is the difference between 'methodology' and 'methods'?
" How do we formulate research concepts?
" How do we select and access a sample?
" What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative approaches?
" How do we handle our data?
This book is essential reading for any student or new researcher on a research methods course and who is faced with the prospect of understanding the research process for themselves or designing their own research project.
'This is not just another methods book – it is ground-breaking in its comprehensiveness about what methodology is and what it is not.'
'I would recommend this book to any member of the SRA whether in academia, local government, central government or market research; in short anyone concerned with collecting data about the social world and trying to make sense of it.'
A well written, helpful text for both undergraduates and postgraduates.
Clear explanation of the key principles of research methods in social science.
University committee decided on a different text.
This is a very useful text for masters and doctoral level students rather than degree level students. It is clearly structured and the narrative style of writing helps to engage the reader in the complexities of theoretical and methodological issues. It is a return to again and again kind of resource.
Too advanced for course as currently offered. Would be excellent for research design course prior to dissertation.
Not focused enough on the nature of qualitative small scale research in education.
An insightful text that supports graduate researchers to gain a greater depth of understanding and application of the research methodologies discussed.
A wonderful and inspirational guide to Social Science research design that never patronises or terrifies the beginning social scientist. Thank you!
This is an excellent new book which engages with theoretical and methodological issues and provides a clear guide for research practitioners in ways that many such books fail to do. It is clear and accessible and does not shy away from dealing with complex issues in a practical manner. It will be of immense value to Masters students and doctoral students alike.
