E-grāmata: Research and Education

Curtis, Murphy, and Shields present this reference on educational research, covering all aspects of the research process. The first part treats the process stepwise, beginning with topic selection and research proposals, and then treating literature review, data collection and analysis, and presentation of results. Part two discusses different types of research designs, including survey, experimental, case study, ethnography, and action research, with part three honing in on the specific data collection techniques of questionnaires, individual and group interviews, observation, and document analysis, as well as discussing how the Internet can be used to facilitate participant recruitment, questionnaire administration, reduction of observer bias, and other aspects of research. Finally part four addresses the theoretical frame of research, including data interpretation, method evaluation, objectivity, and ethics. In addition to the main text, the book includes activities, case studies, practical advice, and further reading lists. Annotation ©2014 Ringgold, Inc., Portland, OR (protoview.com)

Educational researchers take a number of decisions that define the credibility and scope of their enquiry – the approaches they adopt, the strategies they employ, the methods they use and the ways they present their findings. This core text provides an easy-to-read, comprehensive introduction to educational research that will develop your understanding of research strategies, theories and methods.

Specifically written for undergraduate education studies students, the book guides you through the process of planning a research project, the different research methods available and how to carry out your research and write it up successfully. Highlighting the theoretical and methodological debates and discussing important ethical and practical considerations, the book is structured to help you tackle all the different aspects of your project from writing your literature review, designing a questionnaire and analysing your data to the final writing up. The book will give you the confidence and enthusiasm to discuss and write about your research effectively.

Features include:

• extension tasks -- to introduce new material and encourage you to think critically
• case studies -- with information on important studies and examples of research that have utilised specific approaches
• practical advice and tips -- to help you relate the topics discussed to your own on-going project work
• annotated further reading lists -- providing you with an opportunity to access more detailed and specific resources.

Part of the Foundations of Education Studies series, this timely textbook is essential reading for students undertaking a research methods course or a piece of educational research.