Qualitative and Mixed-Method Approaches

In this chapter, the juxtaposition and interconnection of deductive and inductive research methods are explored. Qualitative, inductive empirical tools are discussed in depth, specifically in-depth interviews, focus groups, and field observation. Students will learn how these methods are used to generate hypotheses, which can ultimately be tested using deductive research methods. The structure of inductive research questions, and how they differ from deductive research questions, is further addressed, as is how a researcher “makes sense” of qualitative data.

Policy Analysis

In this chapter, students are presented with the fundamentals of policy analysis. Upon reading this chapter, students will understand the purpose of policy analysis, and how one goes about completing a policy analysis. Terms such as action forcing event, policy question, environmental scan, policy options, and options assessment are discussed in depth. Real world examples are used to further underscore each step in the policy analysis process.

Designing Experiments

In this chapter, students will learn the process of designing experiments. The classic experimental design is presented first. Following this, three distinct quasi-experimental designs are presented. The benefits and burdens of the classic and quasi-experimental designs are discussed in depth. By the end of this chapter, students will understand concepts related to random selection, generalizability, treatment and control groups, pre- and post-test measurement of the dependent variable, and internal validity.

The Unit of Analysis and Variables

In this chapter, students will learn how to identify the unit of analysis of a deductive research question. In addition, the concept of variables is discussed. Three different types of variables are presented. By the end of this chapter, students will be able to identify and define the dependent, independent, and extraneous variables related to a given research question. Numerous examples are presented throughout.

The Deductive Research Question and Literature Review

In this chapter, students will learn the process of developing a deductive research question. The social science process, and by virtue the methods that are employed as part of a research study, stem from the structure and nature of the research question. This chapter provides a step-by-step account of how to generate a scientifically valid deductive question. The concept and structuring of a hypothesis that is linked to a research question is also discussed. The second portion of the chapter is devoted to explaining how to complete a literature review that is relevant to your research question and hypothesis.

Sampling

In this chapter, students are presented with two distinct methods of choosing which units of analysis that represent a broader population will be included in a study. Multiple probability and non-probability sampling techniques are discussed. Upon reading this chapter, students will understand how to draw a random sample and the inherent advantages of probability sampling methods compared to non-probability methods. Concepts such as sampling frame, generalizability, margin of error, and confidence level are discussed. Numerous examples are used throughout.

Program Evaluation

In this chapter, students are presented with the fundamentals of program evaluation. Upon reading this chapter, students will understand what program evaluation is, how one goes about completing an evaluation, and the importance of stakeholders in the evaluation process. Also examined are the different types of program evaluations and discussion of ethical conduct for program evaluators.

Measuring Variables

In this chapter, students will learn the basics of measuring variables related to a deductive research question. Students are presented with examples that illustrate when it is most appropriate to use surveys, experimentation, and/or existing data to measure one's variables. A surface explanation of writing survey questions, designing a social scientific experiment, and identifying existing data sources is discussed.

Practical Data Analysis

In this chapter, students will learn “what to do” with their quantitative data once it has been collected. The chapter begins with a discussion of data coding, which is the process of preparing one's data for statistical analysis. What follows is a discussion of basic univariate, bivariate, and multivariate data analysis techniques. These techniques are presented in such a way that students with limited statistics backgrounds can understand and employ. Emphasis in this chapter is placed on giving students a working knowledge of statistical techniques that are most widely used when interpreting quantitative data.

Introduction

In this chapter, students are presented with the concept of empiricism, which serves as the basis for all social science research. Quantitative, deductive empirical research tools are compared to qualitative, inductive research tools. Quantitative tools include surveys, experimentation, and the use of existing data. The empirical tools associated with qualitative research include in-depth interviews, focus groups, and field observation. The differences between hypothesis testing and hypothesis generation are discussed.