A Practical Guide to Research Methods

The world of research can certainly be confusing. The new researcher is exposed to complex methodological issues, inexact or conflicting terminology, and frequently to research authors who pursue their own foibles at the expense of comprehension. book. There are a number of issues which are touched upon, but not really explored, for example, triangulation. Now this is a large topic in itself, and it would be unreasonable to suggest that a slim volume such as this can cover all topics relevant to social science/nursing research, nor that any author should try to do this. What this does highlight, though, is that, although this book may be a useful point of departure, the students will still have to read widely and be in a position to compare and contrast sources to justify their choices of methodology and methods. This is particularly true for students aiming for higher degrees. Similarly, topics such as choice of paradigms, which are largely mandatory for higher degrees, are not included here.