Description
For just about every student, the most daunting task is writing a research paper. Identifying, selecting, processing and analysing information can be a stumbling block on the path to academic achievement, but Nuts and Bolts of Research Methodology provides a straightforward guide for the novice and experienced researcher alike as well as for practitioners and professionals in various fields.
Broad in scope but simple in approach, users will appreciate the succinct explanations of key methodological concepts enhanced with graphic illustrations. From topic identification, to writing up the paper, examples throughout the book help to make complex concepts and ideas clear. A basic understanding of research methodology along with relevant statistical concepts and techniques is provided, as well as guidance on using statistics software. The tip section after each concept is especially useful in drawing together the key aspects of each discussion section.
Nuts and Bolts is the go-to guide for writers across a range of disciplines and professions. Covering all aspects of the research process, the book culminates with easily navigable flowcharts and diagrams illustrating all of the steps in the process. The most basic, fundamental and essential components of research methodology are presented in a user-friendly style helping users to develop the skills needed to navigate the investigative process and present a comprehensive research paper or evaluation report.
Contents
List of Figures
List of Tables
Foreword
Preface
- Research Questions, Hypotheses, And Variables
The Research Process
The Research Topic
Quantitative Research
Variables in Quantitative Research
Research Questions in Quantitative Research
Research Hypotheses in Quantitative Research
Qualitative Research
Research Questions in Qualitative Research
Applied vs Basic Research
- Literature Review
The Literature Review or Review of Literature
Sources of Literature
The Literature Review Process
Citations and Quotations
References
Plagiarism
Searching for Sources
Links to Useful Resources
- Methodology and Study Designs
Research Methodology
Experiments
Observations
Surveys
Interviews
Focus Groups
Case Studies
Document Review and Analysis
Mixed Methods Approach
- Instrumentation and Measurement
Conceptualization and Operationalization
Measurement
Questionnaire Design
Close-ended Questions vs Open-ended Questions
Reliability
Validity
Validated Instruments/Scales
Scale Construction
Interview Schedule Design
- Sampling
Sampling Frame
Sample Size
Probability Sampling
Sampling Error
Sampling Bias
Non-probability Sampling
Response Rate
Pilot Study
Incentives
- Ethics and Data Collection
International Research Protocol and Institutional Review Boards (IRB)
Ethics in Data Collection
Data Retention and Data Security
Preparing for Interview Fieldwork
Conduct in the Field
Interviewing Skills
Coding Quantitative Data
Coding Qualitative Data
- Quantitative Data Analysis
Descriptive Statistics
Measures of Central Tendency
Measures of Dispersion
Frequency Analysis and Crosstabulations
Inferential Statistics
Associational Inferential Statistics
Comparative Inferential Statistics
Effect Sizes
- Qualitative Data Analysis
Qualitative Data
Thematic Analysis
Discourse Analysis
Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis
Narrative Analysis
Conversation Analysis
Grounded Theory Analysis
- The Research Paper
Planning Tips for the Research Paper
Writing Tips for the Research Paper
Structure of the Research Paper
Presenting the Research Paper
- Putting it all Together: The Research Process
Topic Identification
Determine Research Methodology
Determine Research Design
Determine Sample Design and Demographics
Develop Data Collection Instrument
Determine if IRB Approval is Required
Data Collection and Security
Data Sorting, Coding and Entry
Data Analysis and Interpretation
Data Reporting and Write-up
Bibliography
Index
About the Author
Nadini Persaud is a lecturer in Project Evaluation and programme coordinator of MSc Project Management and Evaluation at The University of the West Indies, Cave Hill.
Dwayne Devonish is a senior lecturer in Management at The University of the West Indies, Cave Hill.
Indeira Persaud is an Associate Dean of Students at St George’s University and a veteran educator.
