Real Research: Research Methods Sociology Students Can Use

Real Research: Research Methods Sociology Students Can Use by Liahna Gordon is an innovative text that takes a holistic approach to the subject by discussing each step in the research process within the context of a particular method. After an opening chapter that surveys different methods of data collection and the components of research, students proceed immediately to chapters on specific methods. Each of these chapters begins with a description of the method and the logic that underlies it, so that students can see how each step in the research process fits within the logic of that particular method. The chapters then go on to present all of the steps of research as they relate to that particular research method, from writing research questions through analysis. With this format, instructors can begin engaging students in hands-on exercises almost immediately, increasing interest in and comprehension of the material.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1. Introduction
Chapter 2. Interviewing
Chapter 3. Observation and Ethnography
Chapter 4. Surveys
Chapter 5. Secondary Data Analysis
Chapter 6. Existing Statistics Research
Chapter 7. Content Analysis
Chapter 8. Experiments for Evaluation Research
Appendix A: Reviewing the Literature
Appendix B: Writing a Research Proposal