Social Work Research Methods: From Conceptualization to Dissemination

Social Work Research Methods is a stand alone "how-to" social research text that covers conceptualization, design, implementation, data management, and statistical analysis with comprehensively detailed examples.

It provides students with everything they need to learn about social science research, and how complete a research project from start to finish.  In addition, the text's research process is covered sequentially, in a straightforward “how-to” format.  It discusses values and ethics, conceptualization, design, familiarization with key computer programs (Microsoft Excel, SAS, SPSS and NVIVO), analyses, implementation and dissemination.  It is also written in a tone that is intentionally light-hearted to increase student interest and comfort level by addressing often overlooked aspects of conducting research (e.g. data management, IRB clearance, and grant development) in detail. 

Key highlights of the text include five example research projects. These example projects are presented in their entirety; including how the researchers chose their areas of interest, how they executed their literature reviews (annotated citation lists are given), and how they designed, implemented, and disseminated (poster, article, agency report, or PowerPoint presentation) their work.

Social Work Research Methods: From Conceptualization to Dissemination

Brett Drake

 Melissa Jonson-Reid

Basic Approach:

Written in an intentionally light-hearted tone,Social Work Research Methods is a stand alone "how-to" text that provides everything necessary to learn about social science research and complete a research project from start to finish.  It covers conceptualization, design, implementation, data management, and statistical analysis through rich examples designed to increase interest and comfort level.

Features: 

• Five example research projects are integrated throughout the text and are presented in their entirety–including how the researchers chose their area of interest, how they executed literature reviews, and how they designed, implemented and disseminated their work. 
• Concepts are presented in a step-by-step format so students can do research projects with tangible results.
• Content on values and ethics was developed to ensure adherence to CSWE guidelines.
• Research as a part of a clinical practice (both single subject and multi-subject) is included for students interested in doing research as part of their clinical work.

What the reviewers are saying…

“There are no superfluous side trips into abstract theory or explanations of ‘why’ [students] should be interested in research. It just teaches them how to do it. It cuts to the chase from the beginning, and this prevents students from being turned off before they begin.”

Ted R. Watkins, Texas State University–San Marcos

 “[Social Work Research Methods] includes many aspects of the research process (e.g., pilot testing an instrument, getting access to subjects, monitoring data collection) that are simply overlooked by the average research methods text, yet are crucial to a solid research study.  The authors visit issues that come up in real research, yet are not considered very much in standard texts.  It is an actual guidebook in carrying out research.”

Carolyn Turturro, University of Arkansas–Little Rock

“The writing is crisp, fresh, and clear…Students will likely find this text a fun read.”

Dean F. Duncan, III, University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill

Value-Packaged at No Additional Charge:

MyHelpingKit is a one-stop online portal that provides students with chapter-by-chapter Learning Objectives, Chapter Summaries, Practice Tests, Flashcards, Research Activities and Research Navigator™.   

Value-Packaged at Minimal Charge (Also Available Separately):

…A workbook to accompanySocial Work Research Methods.  It includes exercises for each chapter, evidence-based practice modules, and step-by-step instructions for students working on their own research projects.  

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