The Research Methods Knowledge Base

Rating:
Summary: Make Sure You Get the FULL Version
Review: As other reviewers have noted, this book has a 100% accurate title. It is the single best reference book on research methods you can buy. However, you should note that the version Amazon sells DOES NOT provide the Activation Key for free access to the updated online edition. This is an additional $25.00. If you don't want the activation key, there are used books available for a lot less. If you, like me, need the access to the online version, you'll need to purchase it elsewhere.

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Summary: Magnificent introduction to social science research methods
Review: This book is an accurate, informative introduction to social science research methods designed as a textbook for undergraduate and graduate courses. The approach is general and transdisciplinary, creating a book that can be put to good use in many fields. The emphasis is robust conceptual development and critical thinking. The goal is helping students to develop an understanding of the links between theory and research, the use of empirical data to generate valid conclusions, and the ability to select an appropriate combination of methods in qualitative and quantitative approaches to research. In contrast to the cookbook approach of memorizing research tools that leads to half-digested research tricks and poorly understood concepts, Trochim's approach shows students how to build information into a usable knowledge base for their research work. Most important, he shows how the thoughtful scholar can use the properties of each research method to best effect, making limits as valuable as strengths.

Trochim has the commanding breadth of knowledge one expects of a methodologist and professor of policy analysis and management at Cornell University. He is also a skilled pedagogue. This book is written in a direct, conversational style, using clear, understandable language. The easy tone will help students come to grips with a subject that many find intimidating. Trochim's mastery ensures that this book presents its subject matter without cutting corners. This book offers a comprehensive and comprehensible overview of a subject that proves troubling to students in every field. Trochim meets one of Einstein's criteria for scientific elegance, making the subject as simple as possible but not more so.

Book review published in Design Research News, Volume 6, Number 5, May 2001

Rating:
Summary: beautiful
Review: This is a elegant book, by a very clear thinker. It's theoretical but clear so that a reader gets a very good intorduction to social reserach