Research Methods

Since its first edition in 1985, Patrick McNeill'sResearch Methodshas become a classic introductory text for undergraduate students of sociology and for a range of specialists in disciplines such as education, business, social care, and medicine who need a brief but authoritative account of how sociologists set about doing research. After a brief overview of the history of sociological research, which introduces some of the key concepts, the book describes the main sociological research methods, with a final chapter about theory, science, and values. An appendix provides a set of questions that students should ask when they are evaluating accounts of research. This new edition, co-authored with Steve Chapman, retains the clarity of style of the second edition, and brings the content up to date in terms of: * references to research studies * developments in relevant sociological theory * developments in research methodology * new material on the presentation of researchfindings.

Patrick McNeill is currently Chair of Examiners for A-level Sociology for a leading exam board.