Research Methods for Environmental Studies: A Social Science Approach

The methodological needs of environmental studies require a textbook that covers a broad swath of approaches to conducting research with potentially many different kinds of evidence. This new edition of Research Methods for Environmental Studies is written specifically for social science-based research into the environment and contains new chapters on coding, focus groups, and hypothesis testing. It covers the best-practice research methods most used to study the environment and its connections to societal and economic activities and objectives, emphasizing that methodological practice should be tailored to the specific needs of the project.

Format: Hardback
Length: 492 pages
Publication date: 20 July 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The methodological requirements of environmental studies are incredibly diverse, encompassing a wide range of research questions that can be addressed using a multitude of evidence types. Consequently, a comprehensive textbook is necessary to provide a comprehensive guide to conducting research in this field. This new edition of Research Methods for Environmental Studies has been thoroughly revised to account for recent advancements, such as the impact of the internet, the increasing use of computers, remote sensing, and large data sets. The textbook is specifically designed for social science-based research on the environment, offering valuable insights into best-practice research methods.

The revised edition includes several new chapters that cover important topics such as coding, focus groups, and hypothesis testing. These chapters provide detailed explanations and practical examples of these research methods, enabling students to apply them effectively in their studies.

The textbook is organized into five key parts, each focusing on a different aspect of research methods. The first part introduces quantitative and qualitative approaches, while the second part explores mixed methods. The third part addresses the unique requirements of interdisciplinary research, emphasizing the importance of tailoring methodological practices to specific project needs. The fourth part provides detailed coverage of key topics such as identifying a research project, hypothesis testing, spatial analysis, the case study method, ethnographic approaches, discourse analysis, mixed methods, survey and interview techniques, focus groups, and ethical issues in environmental research.

Throughout the book, extended and updated examples are provided to encourage problem-based learning and facilitate a deeper understanding of the research process. These examples cover a wide range of environmental studies topics, including climate change, pollution, sustainability, and conservation.

Research Methods for Environmental Studies is an essential resource for students embarking on courses that explore research methods in environmental studies. It provides a comprehensive and up-to-date guide to the most widely used research methods in this field, enabling students to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to conduct effective and ethical research. Whether you are a novice researcher or an experienced professional, this textbook will be a valuable asset in your pursuit of environmental knowledge and understanding.

Weight: 1080g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032198415
Edition number: 2 ed