Books in the Continuum Research Methods series

The authors outline how multi-modality theory can be used to analyze texts which employ multiple semiotic modes and media, in such a way that a balanced consideration is given to the characteristics of each mode, how they integrate, and how they distribute textual functions between them.

Focus groups are often under-used as a tool for research. This practical guide offers advice on: planning and organising focus groups; what types of questions to use; limitations and advantages of using these groups in research; collecting data at group sessions; and how to analyse data.

Crucial starting points for research are often poorly conceived by students and researchers. As they often spend six months to a year getting their research question right, this book should help set them on the right road.

This work is intended as a guide for those wishing to draw on research techniques in order to inform the planning and undertaking of multi-method evaluation studies of educational initiatives.

Primary research ought to be preceded by a systematic review, which has the advantage over the traditional narrative review in its ability to identify all the available evidence in a systematic and replicable manner. This book describes the key steps to undertaking a systematic review.

Designed for students and practitioners within the world of research, this text covers such practical topics as: the basic techniques of intervewing, preparing an interview schedule, and using tools such as questioning, prompting and reflecting.

The central purpose of this book is to enable practitioners to undertake and to offer an account of an action research project. Having examined the nature of action research, Costello focuses on developing an appropriate project, data collection and analysis, and producing a research report.

This is a guide for students considering using critical discourse analysis as the main methodology in their research. CDA is an emergent research method and can be rather formidable for students looking for a point of entry. This book makes the initiation a gentle and helpful one, without sacrificing the quality of their research.

What is legitimate knowledge? What is the relationship between the collection and analysis of data? Looking at the theory and practice of researching education, this book examines the philosophical, historical, political and social contexts of research and the implications of these for the collection and analysis of data.

What is Action Research? How Do I Collect Action Research Data? How Do I Produce an Action Research Report? This edition offers practical advice to educational practitioners engaging with action research, helping them to understand the key issues involved in completing successful action research projects.

This text provides instruction on doing a case study. It includes information on defining a case, discussion of why case studies are carried out, direction on collecting evidence, constructing a case narrative and writing up the case study.

Encouraging reflection upon the inescapable ethical dimensions of the conduct of research, Ian Gregory explores how ethical concerns inform not only the conduct of research but how they enter into the very decision to engage in a piece of research, its analysis and the use of its outcomes.