Summary

Research Matters is an introductory research title aimed at undergraduate students and novice researchers. It attempts to explain key aspects of research in an accessible manner that readers will not find intimidating. The overriding aim of the book is to introduce the basic concepts and principles of the research process and provide a solid foundation on which inexperienced researchers can build their research knowledge and skills.

The strengths of the book:

-provides a strong theoretical underpinning;

-uses examples and illustrations to demystify the research process and intimidating terminology;

-introduces the three most commonly used research paradigms and explains the impact of these paradigms on the way research is conducted;

-explores the relationship between theory and research;

-guides students through the processes of constructing a theoretical framework, compiling a literature review and conceptualising key concepts;

-covers the role of logical argumentation in research and the importance of providing evidence to support arguments;

-describes widely used qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis methods;

-explains source mining, proposal and report writing, and how to determine the delimitations and limitations of a research study; and

-examines the important role of ethics in research.

Research Matters is an essential resource for any student encountering research or research methods for the first time.