Exploring Research, Global Edition
๐ About This Book
For courses in Experimental Methods and in Research Methods in Political Science and Sociology An informative and unintimidating look at the basics of research in the social and behavioral sciences Exploring Research makes research methods accessible for students - describing how to collect and analyze data, and providing thorough instruction on how to prepare and write a research proposal and manuscript. Author Neil Salkind covers the research process, problem selection, sampling and generalizability, and the measurement process. He also incorporates the most common types of research models used in the social and behavioral sciences, including qualitative methods. The Ninth Edition explores the use of electronic sources (the Internet) as a means to enhance research skills, includes discussions about scientific methods, and places a strong emphasis on ethics.
๐ Summary
Exploring Research, Global Edition by Neil J. Salkind offers an informative and unintimidating look at the fundamental basics of research design and execution, specifically tailored for the social and behavioral sciences. Spanning 288 pages, this 2016 publication serves as an approachable gateway for students who may otherwise feel intimidated by the complexities of experimental methods and empirical inquiry. Whether utilized in sociology, political science, or general behavioral disciplines, the text demystifies the entire arc of the research journey, guiding learners from the initial spark of an idea all the way to a finished manuscript. At its core, the book breaks down the mechanics of how to successfully collect and analyze data while ensuring academic rigor. Author Neil Salkind meticulously covers critical foundational pillars, including the early stages of problem selection, the intricacies of sampling, and the principles of generalizability that allow researchers to draw broader conclusions from targeted studies. Furthermore, the text thoroughly examines the measurement process, ensuring readers understand how to operationalize variables accurately and reliably within their respective fields. Moving beyond pure theory, Salkind introduces the most common types of research models utilized across the social and behavioral sciences, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative methods to provide a well-rounded perspective on empirical investigation. A notable feature of this ninth edition is its integration of modern digital tools, specifically exploring the use of electronic sources and the internet as vital mechanisms for enhancing modern research skills and literature reviews. Ultimately, Exploring Research functions not just as a theoretical overview, but as a practical manual. It provides thorough, step-by-step instruction on how to properly prepare and write a formal research proposal and a final manuscript. By bridging the gap between daunting statistical methodologies and accessible classroom learning, the book equips students with the confidence and competence needed to navigate their own scholarly endeavors.
๐ฏ Key Lessons
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Pros
Approachable and unintimidating writing style for beginners
Comprehensive coverage of both qualitative and quantitative models
Practical guidance on preparing research proposals and manuscripts
Useful incorporation of electronic sources and internet research skills
โ ๏ธ Cons
May be too foundational for advanced or graduate-level researchers
Specific digital tools mentioned may require updates given the rapid evolution of internet technology
โ FAQ
Who wrote Exploring Research, Global Edition? +
The book was written by Neil J. Salkind.
When was this edition published? +
It was published in 2016.
What academic fields is this book primarily for? +
It is designed for courses in experimental methods and research methods within political science, sociology, and the broader social and behavioral sciences.
Does the book cover qualitative research? +
Yes, the text incorporates the most common types of research models, including qualitative methods.
How long is the book? +
The book spans 288 pages.

