Research and Writing Reference Books
The Foundations of Social Research: Meaning and Perspective in the Research Process
by Michael Crotty

This volume examines the ontological and epistemological aspects of different paradigms in research. Crotty considers the historical underpinnings of each paradigm, as well as noting the differentiating characteristics of each school of thought.
The Sage Handbook of Qualitative Research, 3rd ed.
Norman K. Denzin and Yvonna S. Lincoln, eds.

This hefty volume contains chapters by many leaders in the field of qualitative research. Paradigms of research, various methodologies, and the future of qualitative research are highlighted.
Research and Evaluation in Education and Psychology: Integrating Diversity with Quantitative, Qualitative, and Mixed Methods, 2nd ed.
by Donna M. Mertens
Sage Publications

This second edition book adds to the appeal of the first edition—an international bestseller. Each chapter carefully explains a step of the research process from literature review to analysis and reporting. Additionally, sample studies and abstracts are included in each chapter to illustrate the concepts discussed. The appendix includes an outline for the preparation of a research proposal, including ideas for those working on a thesis or dissertation.
Understanding Research Methods: An Overview of the Essentials, 5th ed.
by Mildred L. Patten
Pyrczak Publishing

This is a popular book because it provides a comprehensive presentation of all the important concepts traditionally covered in a research methods class. The numerous examples and exercises in this book help students master the material.
Practical Research: Planning and Design, 8th ed.
by Paul Leedy and Jeanne Ormod
Pearson/Merrill Prentice Hall

This is a comprehensive and practical guide to research methodology. Suited for self-instruction, this easy-to-read manual guides the beginning researcher, step-by-step, through the entire research process with practical suggestions. This “understand-it-yourself, do-it-yourself” approach is designed to help research students understand the fundamental structure of quality research in any discipline.
Completing Your Thesis or Dissertation: Professors Share Their Techniques and Strategies
by Fred Pyrczak
Pyrczak Publishing

Everyone who has written a thesis or dissertation realizes that it is a difficult task, and often times roadblocks occur that can turn the process into a tedious venture or prevent it altogether. This book provides tips, strategies, and personal anecdotes contributed by 70 professors who have been through this process. Students will appreciate the practical information contained in this book.
Doing Quantitative Research in Education with SPSS
by Daniel Muijs
Sage Publications

This book provides an introduction to using quantitative methods in educational research. Written for non-mathematical students, the reader needs no prior knowledge of quantitative methods. Also, the author has avoided using mathematical formulae wherever possible to ensure that the book is accessible and user-friendly.
How to Use SPSS: A Step-by-Step Guide to Analysis and Interpretation, 4th ed.
by Brian C. Cronk
Pyrczak Publishing

This book is designed with the novice computer user in mind, starting with basic tasks. Each chapter is divided into short sections that describe the statistic being used, important underlying assumptions, and how to interpret the results and express them in a research report. Over 200 screenshots demonstrate the use of the program and output. Sample exercises help students achieve full mastery of SPSS.
Making Sense of Statistics: A Conceptual Overview, 4th ed.
by Fred Pyrczak
Pyrczak Publishing

By providing an overview of descriptive and inferential statistics without formulas and computations, this text helps students who are struggling with statistical concepts. With its clear and to-the-point narrative and easy-to-digest layout, this short text is perfect for all courses where statistics are discussed.
Writing Literature Reviews: A Guide for Students of the Social and Behavioral Sciences, 3rd ed.
by Jose L. Galvan
Pyrczak Publishing

This easy-to-follow guide instructs students in the preparation of literature reviews for term projects, theses, and dissertations. There are numerous examples throughout, and emphasis is on the critical analysis of reports of empirical research in academic journals.
Preparing Literature Reviews: Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches, 2nd ed.
by M. Ling Pan
Pyrczak Publishing

This book explains how to synthesize literature using both qualitative and quantitative approaches. All major steps are clearly illustrated with examples. Writing a quality literature review is emphasized.
Evaluating Research in Academic Journals: A Practical Guide to Realistic Evaluation, 3rd ed.
by Fred Pyrczak
Pyrczak Publishing

This supplementary guide is for students who are learning how to evaluate published reports of empirical research. Numerous excerpts from journals in the social and behavioral sciences provide examples that allow students to learn the practical aspects of evaluating research. By de-emphasizing jargon, this book allows students to begin evaluating research with confidence.