Skills for life (Doing Your Research Project - Judith Bell)

Member Name: dcmbarton

Product:	Doing Your Research Project - Judith Bell
Date:	28/05/09 (45 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Clear and concise with plenty of examples

Disadvantages: None

There are many books available about doing research, writing research up and even writing 'quality' research. For me this book stands out because it's not just designed to help you pass your dissertation; it is geared towards any kind of research in education, health and the social sciences.

The book is divided into three distinct sections, namely:

1. Preparation
2. Data collection
3. Interpretation and reporting

Within these sections, the chapters in the book are designed to provide a logical progression for the researcher:

1. Approaching the research
2. Planning the research
3. Ethics and integrity in research
4. Managing the research
5. Literature searching
6. Literature reviews
7. Analysis of evidence
8. Designing questionnaires
9. Planning and conducting interviews
10. Diaries and logs
11. Observation
12. Interpretation and reporting the findings
13. Writing the report

Judith Bell lays out in clear terms the methods needed to approach the research in the most logical way possible. The guidance is straightforward and there are plenty of examples and suggestions for further reading.

As I say, I was impressed by this book because it teaches the skills needed for life; it doesn't provide the easy route to passing your dissertation (though not doubt it would be beneficial). As I have been studying the Open University course E891: Educational Enquiry I have found this book invaluable in providing clear examples and guidance for the research methods studied.

Summary: A superb book for any research in the fields of eduction, health or the social sciences