An invitation to social research : how it's done / Emily Stier Adler, Roger Clark

Includes bibliographical references and index.

The uses of social research -- Theory and research -- Ethics and social research -- Planning a research project -- Sampling -- Measurement -- Cross-sectional, longitudinal, and case study designs -- Experimental research -- Questionnaires and structured interviews -- Qualitative interviewing -- Observational techniques -- Using available data -- Content analysis -- Applied social research -- Quantitative and qualitative data analysis.

"With real-world examples and an emphasis on ethics throughout, An invitation to social research: how it's done, Fifth Edition combines balanced coverage of quantitative and qualitative methods of social research with a unique "behind the scenes" approach. Built on focal research pieces and excerpts from real research projects, chapters present the insights, perspectives, and challenges of actual researchers in the field. The result is a comprehensive resource that guides readers step by step through the many stages of social research-from selecting a researchable question and designing a study to choosing the best method of data analysis for a particular study-and prepares them for the ethical issues and problems that they may face along the way. Reflecting the latest practices from the field, the Fifth Edition also integrates a greater emphasis on research focusing on evidence-based programs and policy. "--Publisher's website.