First steps in research / Kobus Maree, editor.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

What is a research question and why is it important? -- Introduction to the language of research -- Planning a research proposal -- Introducing qualitative research -- Qualitative research designs and data-gathering techniques -- Analysing qualitative data -- First steps in action research -- The quantitative research process -- Surveys and the use of questionnaires -- Sampling -- Statistical analysis I: Descriptive statistics -- Statistical analysis II: Inferential statistics -- Standardisation of a questionnaire -- Overview of some of the most popular statistical techniques -- Foundations and approaches to mixed methods research.

First steps in research brings together the views of academics, theorists, researchers, and practitioners. It presents perspectives and theory on how to facilitate the understanding and application of theories, goals, methods, and strategies. The book is easy to read and use without diluting the conceptual and terminological complexities of the field. It examines the historical and philosophical underpinnings of qualitative, quantitative, and integrative (integrated) or mixed methods of conducting research, and suggests how these three approaches may be used most appropriately. It also elaborates on the methodological dimensions of action research processes and exemplifies participatory reflection.