Research Methodology: An Introduction

Defining the Research Problem

Research Design

Design of Sample Surveys

Measurement and Scaling

Data Collection

Data Preparation

Descriptive Statistics

Sampling and Statistical Inference

Testing of Hypothesis

Chi-Square Tests

Analysis of Variance

Other Nonparametric Methods

Linear Regression Analysis

Factor Analysis

Discriminant Analysis

Cluster Analysis

Other Multivariate Techniques

Interpretation and Report Writing

This third edition has been made more structured to make the learning more systematic. More details are added to old chapters and some new chapters are also added keeping in mind the need of advanced data analysis in social science research. The usage of popular statistical package SPSS has also been shown through many examples.

It is important to adopt an appropriate methodology in quality research. The present book provides the basic and advanced level discussion on research methodology so that the researchers may become familiar with the art of using research methods and techniques.

The book is intended to serve as a textbook for social science students at graduate and postgraduate level. The book can be taken as a well–organised guide for researchers in social science and other areas.