Title: Research Methods in Applied Settings: An Integrated Approach to Design and Analysis, Third Edition

Authors: Jeffrey A. Gliner, George A. Morgan, and Nancy L. Leech

Target Audience: This comprehensive guide caters to students in applied programs, researchers, and practitioners seeking to understand and conduct quantitative research studies. It's particularly beneficial for those aiming to:

• Plan and Execute Research Projects: Learn the process of research, from formulating a question to analyzing and interpreting data.
• Navigate Data Analysis and Interpretation: Develop skills in selecting appropriate statistical techniques and accurately interpret results.
• Critically Evaluate Research: Gain the ability to assess the strengths and weaknesses of existing research studies.

Key Features:

• Integrated Approach: Emphasizes the interconnectedness of research design, data analysis, and interpretation throughout the book.
• Five Research Approaches: Focuses on five main approaches: randomized experiments, quasi-experiments, comparative studies, associational studies, and descriptive studies.
• Clarity and Practicality: Presents complex concepts in a clear and concise manner, with a focus on real-world application through numerous examples and case studies.
• Statistical Guidance: While not solely a statistics book, it equips readers with knowledge on selecting and interpreting appropriate statistical techniques for each research approach.
• Learning Support: Provides key terms, key distinctions, summaries, applied problems, interpretation questions, suggested readings, and online resources for further exploration.

Content:

The book follows the various stages of conducting research:

• Introduction: Establishes fundamental research concepts, different research approaches, and ethical considerations.
• Research Design: Explores the various research designs associated with the five main approaches mentioned above.
• Data Collection: Discusses various methods of data collection, including surveys, interviews, and observations.
• Data Analysis: Explains different statistical techniques used for analyzing quantitative data.
• Interpretation and Communication of Results: Guides readers on interpreting data, drawing conclusions, and effectively communicating their findings.

Overall:

"Research Methods in Applied Settings" serves as a valuable resource for anyone involved in applied research. It offers a comprehensive and practical guide to designing, conducting, analyzing, and interpreting quantitative research studies in a clear and understandable manner. With its emphasis on real-world application and focus on five key research approaches, this book is well-suited for students, researchers, and practitioners across various disciplines.