Analyzing Quantitative Data
From Description to Explanation
- Norman Blaikie - Formerly at the University of Science, Malaysia
This generous and constantly insightful book is designed for social researchers who need to know what procedures to use under what circumstances, in practical research projects. It accomplishes this without requiring an in-depth understanding of statistical theory, but also avoids both trivializing procedures or resorting to `cookbook' techniques. Among the key features of the book are:
- Accessibility
- Organization of the wide, often bewildering array of methods of data analysis into a coherent and user-friendly scheme of classification: types of analysis and levels of measurement
- Demystification - the first chapter unpacks commonly taken-for-granted concepts such as `analysis', `data' and `quantitative'
- Location of methods in real research problems
The book is a triumphant introduction to the theory and practice of quantitative methods. It will quickly establish itself as essential reading for students doing social research throughout the social sciences.
`With this book Norman Blaikie retains his reputation as the leading rapporteur and raconteur of social research methodology. With many other introductory texts, data analysis becomes just an exercise unto itself, and students (sometimes) learn to go through the motions without really knowing why. After working with Blaikie's text, novice researchers will know why quantitative inquiry is important' - Ray Pawson, University of Leeds
`With this book Norman Blaikie retains his reputation as the leading rapporteur and raconteur of social research methodology. With many other introductory texts, data analysis becomes just an exercise unto itself, and students (sometimes) learn to go through the motions without really knowing why. After working with Blaikie's text, novice researchers will know why quantitative inquiry is important' - Ray Pawson, University of Leeds
Clear descriptions of technical terms, very useful for the beginner.
Very good read, with lots of key elements we are looking to involve within the course
This book is ideal for novice researchers and students. The detailed chapter content is extremely helpful in that concepts/ideas are clearly identified so that students can find specific topics quickly and easily.
The whole text is well written with ideas and concepts explained in a very readable style.
It helped a lot students that were asking for a book that explains theoretical, as well as empirical issues on empirical analysis. They found it easy to understand and helpful in their dissertations.
This book takes the reader through basic concepts as well the various quantitative data analysis methods, from the descriptive to inferential analysis. A good book that will help novice researchers settle into quantitative data analysis.
