Behind the Scenes in Social Research: How Practical and Personal Matters Affect a Project

Behind the Scenes in Social Research provides an informal, adaptive, and real-life process of doing social science research. It covers the obstacles and practicalities of doing research, such as the logistical matters that must be handled, the improvisations in research design and data gathering techniques, and the personal characteristics of those doing the research. It also explores how doing research affects the researchers themselves, affecting self-images, altering political or social views, or providing skills that extend beyond the research enterprise.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 130 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Behind the Scenes in Social Research delves into the intricate and dynamic process of conducting social science research. While traditional methods texts provide a foundational understanding of topic selection and data acquisition and analysis, they often overlook the numerous challenges and practicalities encountered during the research journey. Researchers may find themselves at a loss when they embark on their research, as the reality they encounter deviates from the precise descriptions outlined in these textbooks. Obstacles such as unexpected setbacks, logistical complexities, and the need for improvisational approaches in research design and data collection become prevalent. This book aims to address these gaps by providing a comprehensive coverage of the practical issues encountered in social science research.

Furthermore, it recognizes the profound impact that personal characteristics of the researchers have on the design and execution of research projects. It explores how researchers' backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives shape their approach to data collection and analysis, influencing their self-images, political or social views, and the skills they acquire beyond the realm of research.

Drawing from the authors' firsthand experiences and extensive interviews with esteemed senior researchers across various social science fields, Behind the Scenes in Social Research offers a firsthand account of the practical problems encountered in research. It showcases how these challenges can be overcome through perseverance, creativity, and adaptability. The book appeals to scholars and students alike, with interests in research methods and the practical complexities that arise during any research project.

Weight: 236g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032386218