The Essential Guide to Doing Research

Abstract

how does the inexperienced researcher get a handle on the process? Well it is my contention, and in fact the premise of this book, that just being able to make sense of, or even being a scholar of, methods is not enough to ‘do’ research. The methods of research, particularly in the social and applied sciences, have evolved to become highly complex and diverse, and having some basic knowledge Research as a ‘thinking person’ is certainly a necessity.This knowledge, however, is not in itself sufficient to begin designing and carrying out a study. Without a doubt, you must creatively and strategically ‘think’ your way through the process. Research needs to be considered both a ‘thinking game’ and a ‘whole-brain’ activity.