Research Methods for Business and Social Science Students

Description

Research Methods for Business and Social Science Students aims to present a clear discussion of the research methods employed in various disciplines related to our daily life problems. The theoretical basis of research methods is explained clearly and succinctly. Collecting data is a key part of the book and this includes both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection, along with the advantages and disadvantages of each method. The book also describes in clear terms how students can analyse data, interpret results and link these to the literature review and hence their own contribution. It sets out a range of fundamental ideas in research methods, such as deductivism and inductivism, and explains why methodology is not the same as method. In this second edition every chapter has been re-written to be more readable and also to include more examples. The authors have also added a real student research proposal and a multiple-choice test with answers for the readers to test their own understanding of the ideas in the book. The book has been designed to illustrate research tools in a clear and accessible manner through chapters on such topics as formulating research, research design, data analysis and writing up the research results. Cover......Page 1 Contents......Page 6 Preface......Page 12 Acknowledgements......Page 14 1 - Introduction to Research......Page 16 2 - Research Methodology......Page 20 3 - The Research Cycle......Page 41 4 - Literature Review and Critical Reading......Page 48 5 - Sampling......Page 79 6 - Primary Data Collection......Page 107 7 - Secondary Data Collection......Page 119 8 - Surveys......Page 133 9 - Interviews and Focus Groups......Page 158 10 - Qualitative Data Analysis......Page 167 11 - Descriptive Quantitative Analysis......Page 184 12 - Correlation and Regression......Page 214 13 - Advanced Statistical Analysis......Page 236 14 - Tests of Measurement and Quality......Page 260 15 - Conducting Your Research......Page 269 16 - Writing and Presenting the Dissertation......Page 287 Appendices......Page 296 Bibliography and Further Reading......Page 303 About the Authors......Page 304