Summary
Contents
Subject index
‘This is an impressively detailed, clearly written book.. It is a book that I would like students to read’ - Clive Seale, Goldsmiths College, London. Social Research: Theory, Methods and Techniques presents an understanding of social research practice through appreciation of its foundations and methods. Stretching from the philosophy of science to detailed descriptions of both qualitative and quantitative techniques, it illustrates not only ‘how’ to do social research, but also ‘why’ particular techniques are used today. The book is divided into three parts: Part One: Illustrates the two basic paradigms - quantitative and qualitative - of social research, describing their origins in philosophical thought and outlining their current interpretations. Part Two: Devoted to quantitative research, and discusses the relationship between theory and research practice. It also presents a discussion of key quantitative research techniques. Part Three: Examines qualitative research. Topics range from classical qualitative techniques such as participant observation, to more recent developments such as ethnomethodological studies. Overall, the author offers an engaging contribution to the field of social research and this book is a reminder of the solid foundations upon which most social research is conducted today. As a consequence it will be required reading for students throughout the social sciences, and at various levels.
The Qualitative Interview
The Qualitative Interview
- Collecting data by asking questions 264
- Quantitative and qualitative interviewing 265
- Types of interview 269
- Conducting interviews 277
- Analysis of empirical material 281
- A final note: interaction and lack of standardization 283
Qualitative interviews, no differently from surveys, attempt to collect data by asking people questions pursuing, however, the typical goal of qualitative research of exploring the interviewee's individuality and seeing the world through his eyes. This chapter illustrates the differences between qualitative and quantitative interviews; it then describes the various types of qualitative interview, how to conduct such interviews and the stages through which they are carried out. The chapter finally offers suggestions concerning how to analyse the material collected with this technique.
Collecting Data by Asking Questions
The qualitative interview can be seen as the verbal counterpart to ...
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