Books by Paul Oliver

Using Qualitative Methods to Answer Your Research Question provides an accessible and detailed guide to using qualitative methods in social science research. This book places your research question at the centre of your choice of methodology and helps you to identify the strongest qualitative approach to maximize your success.The book provides detailed guidance on:.Types of research questions best suited to investigation using qualitative approaches.Selecting a research question and applying the appropriate methodology.Relating the aims of a research question to the nature of the methodology chosen.The main approaches to the collection and analysis of qualitative data.Using qualitative methods in your research.The different levels of detail required of undergraduate and postgraduate writingThis book is ideal for all students carrying out a research dissertation or planning the research for their thesis."Oliver's book is an interesting and engaging personal introduction to qualitative research and would be a useful text for first time researchers on undergraduate courses or as a pre-course suggested reading for those starting postgraduate research programmes."Alaster Scott Douglas, Reader in Education and Professional Practice, University of Roehampton, London, UK "Accessible, clear and with the needs of the researcher in mind, this book ensures the fundamentals of qualitative research are explored through enthusiasm for the subject matter, an appreciation of the conceptual and philosophical underpinnings, as well as the practicalities of planning and conducting research."Dr. Yunis Alam, Senior Lecturer in Sociology, University of Bradford, UKPaul Oliver is a former Principal Lecturer in the School of Education and Professional Development, at the University of Huddersfield, UK. He was course leader for the Doctor of Education programme, and also taught widely on the master's programme in education.

Sociology: A Complete Introduction is designed to give you everything you need to succeed, all in one place. It covers the key areas that students are expected to be confident in, outlining the basics in clear, jargon-free English and providing added-value features like summaries of key experiments and even lists of questions you might be asked in your seminar or exam.The text is split into four parts, with an emphasis throughout on understanding and treating all concepts with clarity and precision. The first part covers theoretical issues including research methods. Part two looks at the social environment, including urbanization, work, politics, religion and the mass media. The final two parts examine global society and the position of the individual.It is structured to mirror the way Sociology is taught on many A Level and university courses with each chapter covering a key introductory area. By the end you'll have a clear understanding of the essential principles of sociology.

Expert guidance for postgraduate and research students on how to plan, prepare and produce a thesis or dissertation.

This book provides practical guidance on processes of researching a range of relevant literature on a subject, planning and writing a literature review.

By concentrating on the nature of terminology used in research, this book helps students better understand, and learn how to use, the specialist vocabulary of educational and social science research.

This reader-friendly book examines the ethical issues and questions that occur in university and professional research and will help both beginning and experienced researchers to identify ethical issues when they are conducting research.

This book is a concise guide to the major religions around the world. Become familiar with the history of each faith, its core beliefs, and how it is practised today. Whether you're studying theology or just want to know more about the faiths that shape our world, this clearly structured guide offers everything you need to get started.NOT GOT MUCH TIME?One, five and ten-minute introductions to key principles to get you started.AUTHOR INSIGHTSLots of instant help with common problems and quick tips for success, based on the author's many years of experience.TEST YOURSELFTests in the book and online to keep track of your progress.EXTEND YOUR KNOWLEDGEExtra online articles at www.teachyourself.com to give you a richer understanding of psychology.FIVE THINGS TO REMEMBERQuick refreshers to help you remember the key facts.TRY THISInnovative exercises illustrate what you've learnt and how to use it.

Foucault - The Key Ideas is a concise introduction to the life, works and ideas of this ground-breaking modern philosopher. This book will not only guide you through the events of Foucault's life and help you to understand his most complex ideas with ease; it will also demonstrate the practical impact of those ideas on life today. Covering everything from Foucault's views on the philosophy and sociology of knowledge to his analysis of power and institutions in society, this book offers a fascinating insight into the legacy of this revolutionary thinker.NOT GOT MUCH TIME?One, five and ten-minute introductions to key principles to get you started.AUTHOR INSIGHTSLots of instant help with common problems and quick tips for success, based on the author's many years of experience.TEST YOURSELFTests in the book and online to keep track of your progress.EXTEND YOUR KNOWLEDGEExtra online articles at www.teachyourself.com to give you a richer understanding of study skills.FIVE THINGS TO REMEMBERQuick refreshers to help you remember the key facts.TRY THISInnovative exercises illustrate what you've learnt and how to use it.

Paul Oliver rediscovers the wealth of neglected vocal traditions issued on 'Race records'. He discusses the songs of Southern entertainments, and the sacred vocal traditions, from the Baptist and sanctified preaches to the gospel songs of the church congregations and song. Sermons of the 'jack leg' preachers and street evangelists.

Drawing on decades of research and personal interviews, blues scholar Paul Oliver presents this social history of the blues in America. It also gives insights into the role blues played in American society before racial integration.

"The noted blues scholar Paul Oliver here examines the many different skeins of the blues form, relating them to other black traditions - musical and religious - and tracing the origin of the blues thr"