The Research Methods Knowledge Base

Summary (from the publisher): Thoroughly updated, the third edition of The Research Methods Knowledge Base provides coverage of quantitative methods and enhanced coverage of qualitative methods. It can be used in a variety of disciplines and is ideal for an introductory comprehensive undergraduate or graduate level course. Through its conversational, informal style it makes material that is often challenging for students both accessible and understandable. The Research Methods Knowledge Base, 3e covers everything from the development of a research question to the writing of a final report, describing both practical and technical issues of sampling, measurement, design and analysis.

Review: I read this text book in the free online format for a course in my master's program entitled "Methods of Professional Inquiry." This text covers all the topics typically found in an undergraduate or graduate research methods class. Topics it covers include formulating research questions, sampling, measurement, research design, data analysis, and writing research papers.

This text was written in an informal style that made it relatively easy to follow. It also contained examples that helped illustrate the theories it covers. The author is a Cornell University professor who has made the text available in website form as an alternative to commercial texts. It was wonderful to not have to purchase a costly textbook, although adjusting to a hyperlink, online text did take some adjustment. I was nervous about this course since it's been a long time since I covered any sort of research and analysis in a class setting. However, this book is simple enough for beginners/those who need refreshing, and yet detailed enough to cover everything I will need to know as a I prepare to write my master's thesis.

Stars: 3