Research Decisions: Quantitative and Qualitative Perspectives

"Research Decisions" offers a concise yet comprehensive overview of the approaches and methods involved in performing social research. It lays the foundations for good research by exploring what it means to be a member of the social sciences community. The book's thesis acknowledges the differences between the two main approaches to research (quantitative and qualitative), but offers that these differences should be interpreted as a source of strength rather than a field of conflict. This student-friendly work emphasizes practical issues and has been praised for its liberal use of Canadian examples from a variety of academic disciplines. It offers a well-rounded presentation of the theory and philosophy underlying the approaches to social research. Linkages between theory and data are thoroughly examined throughout the book. Complex material is explained clearly in this student-friendly book. It includes coverage of computer-assisted data analysis. It emphasizes practical issues such as the importance of formulating research objectives.
It gives special attention to actual data-gathering procedures including sampling, interviews, questionnaires, observational strategies, and on-site research. It includes Canadian examples throughout.