Dear Colleagues,
William M. K. Trochimhas developed two excellent web sites linked to
his book, The Research Methods Knowledge Base.
This book is an accurate, informative introduction to social science
research methods designed as a textbook for undergraduate and
graduate courses. The approach is general and transdisciplinary,
creating a book that can be put to good use in many fields. The
emphasis is robust conceptual development and critical thinking. The
goal is helping students to develop an understanding of the links
between theory and research, the use of empirical data to generate
valid conclusions, and the ability to select an appropriate
combination of methods in qualitative and quantitative approaches to
research. In contrast to the cookbook approach of memorizing research
tools that leads to half-digested research tricks and poorly
understood concepts, Trochim's approach shows students how to build
information into a usable knowledge base for their research work.
Most important, he shows how the thoughtful scholar can use the
properties of each research method to best effect, making limits as
valuable as strengths.
Trochim has the commanding breadth of knowledge one expects of a
methodologist and professor of policy analysis and management at
Cornell University. He is also a skilled pedagogue. This book is
written in a direct, conversational style, using clear,
understandable language. The easy tone will help students come to
grips with a subject that many find intimidating. Trochim's mastery
ensures that this book presents its subject matter without cutting
corners. This book offers a comprehensive and comprehensible overview
of a subject that proves troubling to students in every field.
Trochim meets one of Einstein's criteria for scientific elegance,
making the subject as simple as possible but not more so.
The book is supported by an online site provided by the publisher at URL:
http://www.atomicdog.com/trochim/Marketing.asp.
The site gives teachers an opportunity to survey the entire book and
a chance to test the online course support materials.
Trochim is also responsible for Bill Trochim's Center for Social
Research Methods, a rich, useful Web site at: URL:
http://trochim.human.cornell.edu/.
Best regards,
Ken
--
Ken Friedman, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Leadership and Strategic Design
Department of Technology and Knowledge Management
Norwegian School of Management
Visiting Professor
Advanced Research Institute
School of Art and Design
Staffordshire University