Research Concepts for Management Studies

This excellent companion volume toResearch Skills for Management Studies(Routledge, 2003) provides students with an in-depth introduction to five key research concepts and the constellation of ideas in which they are situated. These concepts are: knowledge; theory; data; validity; and significance. Uniquely, this book focuses on these central ideas which it is rarely possible to explore in depth in conventional research methods texts, rather than dealing purely with research techniques. It improves the student's appreciation of the subtle and dynamic nature of the meanings of these concepts, which are often taken for granted. An essential text for all those involved in teaching business and management, and an absolute must-buy for researchers and students grappling with the complexity of research methodologies.

Alan Thomas is Visiting Senior Fellow in Sociology and Organizational Behavior at Manchester Business School, University of Manchester.