Thoroughly updated to reflect changes in both research and methods, this Third Edition of Remler and Van Ryzin’s innovative, standard-setting text is imbued with a deep commitment to making social and policy research methods accessible and meaningful. Research Methods in Practice: Strategies for Description and Causation motivates readers to examine the logic and limits of social science research from academic journals and government reports. A central theme of causation versus description runs through the text, emphasizing the idea that causal research is essential to understanding the origins of social problems and their potential solutions. Readers will find excitement in the research experience as the best hope for improving the world in which we live, while also acknowledging the trade-offs and uncertainties in real-world research.

Thoroughly updated to reflect changes in both research and methods, this Third Edition of Remler and Van Ryzin’s innovative, standard-setting text is imbued with a deep commitment to making social and policy research methods accessible and meaningful. Research Methods in Practice: Strategies for Description and Causation motivates readers to examine the logic and limits of social science research from academic journals and government reports. A central theme of causation versus description runs through the text, emphasizing the idea that causal research is essential to understanding the origins of social problems and their potential solutions. Readers will find excitement in the research experience as the best hope for improving the world in which we live, while also acknowledging the trade-offs and uncertainties in real-world research.

This is a book designed with the teacher educator in mind. It provides in depth examination of specific methods used effectively in self-study research. The chapters are written by researchers engaged in self-study of their practice.

"This research methods textbook distinguishes itself from other textbooks by providing a unique framework and perspective for users/students to establish the relevancy of research in their clinical practice. Many, if not most, students in professional preparation allied health care programs view the research methods/statistics course requirement of the curriculum as an obstacle to be overcome, or at best, as a necessary evil. Most research methods textbooks promote these notions because of the way they are presented. Of course, most times they are written by researchers or statisticians and are absolutely correct in presenting the theoretical underpinnings and mechanistic applications of the scientific method. They correctly present explanations as to why one type of methodology requires a certain type of statistical analysis based on the characteristics of the study population, the type of data collected, or the underlying assumptions pertinent to a specific statistical model. So, while technically beyond reproach, their failure is in establishing how and why research activity and understanding is integral to a professional practice"--Provided by publisher.

Research Methods: From Theory to Practice guides students through the entire research process-from choosing a research question and getting Institutional Review Board approval to presenting results at conferences and submitting work for peer review. KEY FEATURES *Provides students the practical skills needed to conduct their own research *Encourages critical thinking to help students become educated consumers of research presented in journal articles and the popular media *Considers the influence of rapidly changing technology on research methods, including statistical and neuroscience methods *"Inside Research" features personalize research by highlighting real-life examples of researchers working in a variety of fields *"Media Matters" features analyze and evaluate how a particular research study or general topic relevant to the chapter is portrayed in the media *Flowchart Figures present key concepts of the research process in a clear and simple visual overview

Focusing on the use of technology in survey research, this book integrates both theory and application and covers important elements of survey research including survey design, implementation and continuing data management.

The book guides the researcher through their journey, giving detailed, step-by-step advice on planning and carrying out each stage of the research. Useful examples from health care research are included throughout to illustrate the application of the techniques and methods discussed. The book provides discussion of all the key issues and stages of research, including user involvement in research, research ethics, deciding on a research approach, and data collection and analysis methods.