Evaluating Research: Methodology for People Who Need to Read Research

by Francis C. Dane, Elliot Donald Carhart

The third edition of Evaluating Research by Francis C. Dane and Elliot Carhart provides students with the skills to read and evaluate research studies. Aimed at courses where it is more important for students to develop an understanding of methods, rather than conduct their own research, this book covers all aspects of reading social, behavioral, and health science research from the basics, such as the structure of reports and accessing research, as well as overviews of the main types of research methods. The authors emphasize critical reading skills to enable students to become experts in evaluating research, so students can decide whether to incorporate that research into their future professional activities. 

Each chapter includes an overview at the beginning and exercises at the end to reinforce the content learned. Starting from the basic principles of why we do research, the book moves readers through the practicalities of finding studies to the principles of the scientific method and how to break down and analyze research reports. New to the third edition, Understanding Checks placed throughout each chapter help students cement their learning. The organization of the book is now more logical, with a new chapter on accessing research up front and ending with a chapter on statistical analyses. New research examples throughout, including such topical examples as mindfulness, college attendance, and bias in healthcare, help students see the relevance of research in their lives.

360 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 29, 2009

Reviews

[Andrew Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't usually review anything I had to read as a text, but this one really changed me. I didn't know how much I didn't know about reading research. I now not only feel more confident about reading research, I have a better understanding on how to properly conduct research. Any academic should read this, it is very approachably written.

[Kony · Rating 3 out of 5]

Assigned for school.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Had to read for Grad school - it's fine, very informative.

[Claudia · Rating 2 out of 5]

It's a useful guide but mostly for those who are beginning on research. A more in depth discussion of the points of evaluation were just not there. I still recommend it for those willing to gain an overall insight in their research.

[Immanythings · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you want to learn about evaluation of research and specifics to look for throughout your article research this is a great step-by-step guide.