Social Research Methods
Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches
- H. Russell Bernard - Arizona State University, USA
This book explains and demonstrates to students when to use and how to apply the quantitative and qualitative techniques that they'll need to do their own social research. Using actual examples from psychology, sociology, anthropology, health and education, the book provides readers with both a conceptual understanding of each technique as well as showing them how to use the technique.
“The main strength of this text is coverage of both quantitative and qualitative methodology from a broad range of fields. The examples are often my students’ favorite thing to discuss in class.”
“Bernard does an excellent job of not only showing how to practice research, but also provides a detailed discussion of broader historical and philosophical contexts that are important for understanding research.”
“The book includes a thorough presentation of quantitative and qualitative methods, including formulas and statistics for quantitative methods. Bernard is one of very few methods authors who includes and explains statistical methods, not just the methods used. Moreover, the book is very comprehensive and uses lots of examples to explain the material in depth.”
“The depth of detailed descriptions (foundations of social research; interviewing, participant observation, field notes, and data analysis) go beyond other texts that I’m aware of, and the organization is superb. The text contains strong descriptions of positivist versus humanistic traditions and splits in social research. It also includes great detail on how to successfully operationalize research variables. The discussion on theory as a “mechanism” and how to choose problems is easily understood and effective. Moreover, the author’s emphasis on making personal interest a high priority in choosing a research topic is critical and primary.”
'There is considerable detail on the history and philosophical foundations of social and behavioural research, ranging from the ‘what’ to the ‘how-to’ of social research.
To make sure the message of each chapter is clearly communicated [Bernard] employs a wealth of examples and reading lists. He also provides the reader with a description of key concepts employed in each chapter.'
Great sourcebook for social research methods
I like the completeness of the text and I had very good luck teaching one of Bernard's anthropology research texts in a graduate course.
However, this was not the appropriate textbook for this particular undergraduate course. Most of the students were not prepared for the high level of reading or thinking and I had to revise the syllabus mid semester and choose readings from a more basic book.
Gives best description of data collection methods.
Nice visual appeal
Balances quantitative and qualitative methods
Selected in error. I am still waiting to receive this review copy. I begin teaching next month!
This has much of the information I will use with the EdD class.