Introduction to Social Research: Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches

by Keith F. Punch

`This book offers an excellent description of quantitative and qualitative design and analysis taught in the context of three inquiry knowledge development, social inquiry, and social research. Furthermore, it provides an excellent overview of both quantitative and qualitative methods with regard to their different epistemologies, methods and techniques. Additionally, Punch provides (a) information guiding students in the use of computers for quantitative and qualitative analysis and (b) a wide range of illustrative examples to give the book a practical flavour.... I would not hesitate to recommend it to my undergraduate students′ - Qualitative Social Research (www.qualitative-research.net) `A carefully crafted introduction to social research methodology. The author guides the reader through the research process in a comprehensive and logical way which is particularly helpful for the new researcher. A great resource for anyone involved in social research - novice or experienced′ - Dr Mary Kellett, Open University Building on the success of An Introduction to Social Research , this Second Edition has been fully revised and updated to provide a broader coverage of a range of methodological approaches for upper-level undergraduate and graduate students across the social sciences. New features - Wider coverage of qualitative research methods, including sections on action research and discourse analysis. - More pedagogical features such as student exercises and illustrative examples to ensure this is a practical, student-friendly guide. - More in-depth examination of the ethical issues involved in social research. A comprehensive and accessible introduction to qualitative, quantitative and mixed empirical methods, An Introduction to Social Research is an ideal starting point for all students and researchers in the social sciences.

Genres: Sociology

336 pages, Paperback

First published December 12, 1998

Reviews

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mixed Methods research is a growing methodology among scholars; however, it is so new that few set guidelines and procedures exist concerning the effective integration of qualitative and quantitative data. As a result, the author maps out the research process starting with formulating a question and ending with data integration. Most importantly, he takes the time to explain the various functions of qualitative and quantitative methodologies as well as their strengths and weaknesses in any research setting to give the researcher adequate information to see if thier study is truly mixed.

The reading is dry. In fact, I wouldn't pick this book up unless a person is planning to conduct this form of research. In that case, it's excellent. It takes the reader step by step through the mixed methods process, and explains terms, data collection and analysis processes, and ways to integrate the two original methodologies to enhance the strengths of the research while minimizing the weaknesses. In addition, since this form of research is still on the cusp of academic acceptance, it provides the foundation and rationale needed to defend its use.

[David · Rating 3 out of 5]

Unput downable.
An emotional roller coaster.
If you read one book this year, make it this one.

[Rozie]

Thank god its over

[Kate · Rating 2 out of 5]

"The more difficult problem concerns the correspondence between verbal responses and behaviour, the relationship between what people say, what they do and what they say they do, and the assumption that language is a good indicator of thought and language."

"It is difficult to summarize what has not yet been written."

[Nulur]

still reading!