Doing Excellent Small-Scale Research, Derek Layder 9781849201834

How do you conduct a small-scale research project? And how do you make it excellent?

In this inspiring and engaging book, readers are presented with the key principles and practices of small-scale research. In addition, the book provides a peerless introduction to the key features involved in the process of research design and practice. Written in a clear, accessible way and drawing on exciting up-to-date examples, this book makes for a crucial companion on the way to research excellence.

Based on Layder's solid background as a researcher, supervisor and teacher, Doing Excellent Small-Scale Research:

- Leads the researcher through the actual process of doing a research project from start to finish

- Offers a comprehensive outline of general areas and issues such as preparation and planning, developing research questions, interviewing and sampling

- Reflects upon research as a social and human process

- Provides systematic guidelines and advice above and beyond technical essentials.

This book will be invaluable to both students and researchers interested in social interaction - informing, guiding and inspiring them towards excellent small-scale research.

Overview of the Adaptive Approach

Finding a Research Topic and a Research Problem

Developing Questions from Research Problems

Preparation and Project Design

Qualitative Data and Mixed Strategies

Quantitative Data and Mixed Strategies

Imaginative Sampling

Data Analysis: Concepts and Coding

Writing the Research Report: Arguments and Explanations

Guidelines and Checklist for Adaptive Research