Research Methods in Practice: Strategies for Description and Causation

by Dahlia K. Remler, Gregg G. Van Ryzin

Thoroughly updated to reflect changes in both research and methods, this Third Edition of Remler and Van Ryzin’s innovative, standard-setting text is imbued with a deep commitment to making social and policy research methods accessible and meaningful. Research Methods in Strategies for Description and Causation motivates readers to examine the logic and limits of social science research from academic journals and government reports. A central theme of causation versus description runs through the text, emphasizing the idea that causal research is essential to understanding the origins of social problems and their potential solutions. Readers will find excitement in the research experience as the best hope for improving the world in which we live, while also acknowledging the trade-offs and uncertainties in real-world research.

Genres: Nonfiction, Grad School

728 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2010

Reviews

[Jeff · Rating 3 out of 5]

Remler's text was not a 'fun' read, but it certainly was an informative one. She and her colleagues did an admirable job of distilling the finer points of quantitative research (generally) and statistics (more specifically) down to a level where they could be understood by the student at the introductory (to research) level. The text includes numerous real world examples, which helped with comprehension. Further, Remler and Van Ryzin were careful to highlight the importance of practical significance throughout. For those that are interested in both the scholarship and practice-based ramifications of research, such inclusion was refreshing.

Though Remler was diligent in recognizing the benefits and contributions of qualitative research, the text was a bit light on qualitative measures (to be considered a summary book on research methods. Rather, I would rather it be called what it is - an introduction to quantitative research. The text covers numerous quantitative methods, types of studies, etc. and includes basic introductory language on certain statistical calculations.

[Benjamin]

Prof. Remler was my research methods instructor in grad school. I haven't read the book yet, but if the class was any indication it should be good.

[Kari · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you want the nitty gritty of research this book is for you. I am reading it for a graduate level course.

[Marsha · Rating 3 out of 5]

As text books go, this is remarkably easy to read. I can definitely see elements of Professor Van Ryzin's personality in it.