Theories of Research Methodology: Readings in Methods

Author(s): Lior Gideon

Edition: 3

Copyright: 2019

Pages: 408

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$98.40

ISBN 9781524996895

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Mastering research methods and designs should be a top priority of all students and scholars who are driven by curiosity and strive to acquire and advance knowledge.

Aimed at both undergraduate and graduate students, Theories of Research Methodology: Readings in Methods provides the reader with six sections of research methodology, providing him/her with a broader spectrum of the different methods and designs available. From covering basic concepts in research methods to more advanced and innovative research methods, the new edition of the book enables students to gain solid understanding of research methodology that goes beyond the bare minimum. 

Based on the teaching experience of Lior Gideon, Theories of Research Methodology: Readings in Methods:

  • presents the voices of different scholars engaged in research and teaching of research methodology.
  • uses both quantitative and qualitative approaches to methodology, with a strong emphasis on the principles that guide scientific research, sampling, designs, and the different methods of data collection.
  • includes up-to-date studies in criminology, criminal justice, and other social studies.
  • presents the most essential aspects of social-research methodology.
  • explains basic concepts of research methodology in great detail.
  • expends on new and innovative methods and designs such as additional sampling techniques, propensity scores, evaluation studies, and evidence-based research designs.

 

Acknowledgements
Foreword

PART I: INTRODUCTION
Research Methods, Research Flow, and Research Designs: An Outline

Chapter 1 Introduction to Research Methods and Designs in Criminal Justice and Criminology—Lior Gideon.
Introduction
“Good” Research versus “Bad” Research
Two Common Research Models
Linear Model
Circular Model
Types of Studies According to Their Funding Agencies
Connection between Theory and Method
Selecting a Research Topic
Identifying a Research Problem
Hypotheses
Summary
References
Discussion Questions

Chapter 2 The Scientific Approach in Social Inquiry—Lior Gideon.
Scientific Approach and the Scientific Explanation
Explanation and Prediction
Dependent and Independent Variables
Concepts and Definitions
Conceptual and Construct Definitions
Can We Refer to Criminology and Criminal Justice as Science?
Ethics in Research
Summary
References
Discussion Questions

Chapter 3 Principles of Measurement—Lior Gideon.
Theoretical Definition
Operational Definition
Reliability: A Measure of Stability and Consistency
Test–Retest Reliability
Equivalent Measurement Reliability
Internal Consistency Reliability
Split-Half Reliability
Interrater or Interobserver Reliability
What Reliability Measure Should We Use?
Validity
Face Validity
Content Validity
Criterion validity
Construct Validity
Predictive Validity
External Validity
Internal Validity
Statistical Conclusion Validity
The Relationship between Reliability and Validity
Summary
References
Discussion Questions

PART II: SAMPLE SIZE
Sample Size and Statistical Power: An Outline

Chapter 4 Magic and Science in Multivariate Sentencing Models: Reflection on the limits of Statistical methods—Weisburd, D. L.
Introduction
Science and Magic in Statistical Sentencing Research: A Case Study
Correct Model Specification and Its Relevance to Magical Results
Conclusions
Discussion Questions

Chapter 5 Sample Size Consideration and Statistical Power—Lior Gideon.
Level of Measurements
Categorical Variables
Continues Variables
Summary
References
Discussion Questions

PART III: SAMPLING TECHNIQUES
Sampling Methods: An Outline

Chapter 6 Capturing Population Traits Using Samples: The Art of Choosing the Right Sample—Lior Gideon.
Census, Sampling Frame, and Population Sampling
Sample Size
Sampling Techniques Probability Sampling Techniques
Simple Random Sampling
Systematic Random Sampling
Stratified Random Sample
Cluster Sample
Nonprobability Sampling Techniques
Purposive Sample
Quota Sample
Snowball/Chain Sample
Convenience/Availability Sample
Summary
References
Discussion Questions

Chapter 7 Purposeful Sampling—Eyrich-Garg, K. M.
Extreme or Deviant Case Sampling
Intensity Sampling
Maximum Variation (Heterogeneity) Sampling
Homogenous Sampling
Typical Case Sampling
Critical Case Sampling
Snowball or Chain Sampling
Criterion Sampling
Theoretical Sampling, Operational Construct Sampling, & Theory-Based Sampling
Confirming and Disconfirming Cases
Stratified Purposeful Sampling
Opportunistic or Emergent Sampling
Purposeful Random Sampling
Sampling Politically Important Cases
Convenience Sampling
Combination or Mixed Purposeful Sampling
References
Discussion Questions

Chapter 8 Obtaining Representative Small Sample in Qualitative Studies—Lior Gideon.
Non-probability Sampling Methods
Network Sampling
The Ex-Sharon Prisoner’s Case Study and Methodology
Interviewees Sampling
Combination of Non-probability Sampling Methods—Discussion
Conclusion
Notes
References
Discussion Questions

PART IV: RESEARCH DESIGNS
Research Design Models: An Outline

Chapter 9 Descriptive Research Designs—Lior Gideon.
Exploratory Studies
Descriptive Studies
Exploratory versus Descriptive Studies Descriptive Longitudinal Studies
Time-Series Longitudinal Research
Panel Studies
Cohort Studies
Multiple-Group Trend Design
Cross-Sectional Studies
Hypothesis and Causality
Intervening and Interfering Variables
Summary
References
Discussion Questions

Chapter 10 Causality Research Designs—Lior Gideon.
Preexperimental Designs
Before-and-After Design
After-Only Design
After-with-Comparison Design
Experimental Designs
Randomized Experimental Design
Randomized Experimental Design with Comparison and Control
Solomon Four-Group Experimental Design
Multicenter Randomized Trial Design
Ethics and Experimental Design in Criminal Justice Research
Quasi-Experimental Designs
Example of Quasi-Experimental Design: Evaluation of a Prison-Based Therapeutic Community
Summary
References
Discussion Questions

Chapter 11 Deciding What Works What Doesn’t and What Looks
Promising—Lior Gideon.
Methodological Quality Scales
The SMS
Statistical Conclusion Validity Construct Validity
Points to Consider When Attempting to Promote the Use of Experimental Designs in Criminal Justice and Criminological Research
Summary
References

PART V: SURVEY METHODOLOGY
Survey Methodology: An Outline

Chapter 12 Survey Research—Lior Gideon.
Introduction
Sampling and Response Rate Errors
Nonsampling Errors
Types and Personalities of Survey Interviewers
Structuring Survey Questionnaire
What Is a Questionnaire?
Concept and Construct
Design a Questionnaire
Double-Barreled Questions
Double Negative Questions
“Leading” or “Loaded” Questions
Biased Questions
Pretesting
Finalizing the Survey
Summary
References
Recommended Readings
Recommended Websites
Discussion Questions

Chapter 13 Nonsampling vs. Sampling Errors in Survey Research—Assael, H., and Keon, J.
Introduction
Total Survey Error and Its Components
Response Error
Nonresponse Error
Data Collection and Survey Design
Analysis of Results
Random Sampling Error vs. Nonsampling Error
Direction of Response and Nonresponse Biases
Results by Questionnaire Delivery Method
Results by Pre-Alert Techniques
Results by Follow-Up Techniques
Results by Second Delivery
Conclusion
Appendix: Unbiased Estimates of Mean Squared Error for Total Survey Error, Nonsampling Error, and Sampling Error
References
Discussion Questions

PART VI: QUALITATIVE METHODS

Chapter 14 Ethnographic Research—Gideon, L.
Definitions and Goals of Ethnographic Studies
The Holistic Approach
Phrasing Research Questions and Hypotheses in Ethnographic Studies
The Ethnographic Research Design
Sampling
Time-Frame sampling
People Sampling
Event Sampling
Location or Place Sampling
Reliability and Validity in Ethnographic Research
Reliability
Validity
Response and Behavior Reaction
Social Recognition
Multiple Method of Data Collection (Triangulation)
Summary
References
Discussion Questions

Chapter 15 Observations as Data Collection Methods—Gideon, L., and Moskos, P.
Observations: Aims and Limitations Potential Biases and Criticism of Observation Research
Grounded Theory: Motivation for Discretionary Police Arrests
Types of Observations
The Pure Participant
The Pure Observer
Active Participant: The Participant as an Observer
Active Observer: The Observer as a Participant (Participant Observation)
Observation Methods
What and Whom to Observe How to Observe
Summary
References
Discussion Questions

Chapter 16 Interviewing: An Introduction—Gideon, L., and Moskos, P.
Interview Topics in Criminology and Criminal Justice
Types of Interview
Types of Questions to Ask
Summary
References
Discussion Questions

Chapter 17 Focus Group: An Introduction—Lieberman, C., and Gideon, L.
The Evolution of Focus Groups
What Are Focus Groups, and When Should They Be Used?
Sampling and Design Issues
Participation and Interaction among Participants
Analyzing Focus Group Data
Focus Group Advantages
Focus Group Disadvantages
Summary
References
Discussion Questions

PART VII: WRITING

Chapter 18 Academic Writing: Research Proposal and Research Report—Gideon, L., and Barnes-Ceeney, K.
Introduction
Literature Review
Method Section Results
Discussion
Policy Implications
References/Bibliography
Most Common Referencing Styles
Title Page
Abstract

List of Figures
List of Tables
Glossary
Index

Lior Gideon
Dr. Lior Gideon is a Professor of Criminal Justice in the Department of Law, Police Science and Criminal Justice Administration at John Jay College in New York. He holds a Doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in Criminology in Law from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, a Master’s degree (MA) in Sociology and Anthropology with specialization in Criminology and Law Enforcement, and a Bachelor’s degree (BA) in Sociology and Anthropology, both from Haifa University in Israel. Dr. Gideon completed a two years postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Maryland College Park where he served as an analyst for National Institute of Health (NIH) funded research; a fellowship that culminated with a prestigious award for innovation in research. Through the years, Dr. Gideon gained extensive experience of over 25 years in developing and teaching methodology courses for both undergraduate, graduate and post-graduate students in different countries and in different languages. He is the author/ editor of the Handbook of Survey Methodology for the Social Sciences (Springer Publication) and was invited to serve as a methodology advisor and a panel member of several grant proposal panels by the NIH, NIJ, ISF, NSF, and CUNY. Dr. Gideon’s research resulted in over 33 publications in reputable national and international peer-reviewed journals, 35 book chapters, and encyclopedia entries. He is also the author/ co-author/ editor of nine (9) books. Additionally, Dr. Gideon is a regular participant and presenter at national and international conferences with over 50 presentations and invited guest lectures. Further, Dr. Gideon is the co-founder and Co-Editor-in-Chief for an international journal titled Health & Justice.

Mastering research methods and designs should be a top priority of all students and scholars who are driven by curiosity and strive to acquire and advance knowledge.

Aimed at both undergraduate and graduate students, Theories of Research Methodology: Readings in Methods provides the reader with six sections of research methodology, providing him/her with a broader spectrum of the different methods and designs available. From covering basic concepts in research methods to more advanced and innovative research methods, the new edition of the book enables students to gain solid understanding of research methodology that goes beyond the bare minimum. 

Based on the teaching experience of Lior Gideon, Theories of Research Methodology: Readings in Methods:

  • presents the voices of different scholars engaged in research and teaching of research methodology.
  • uses both quantitative and qualitative approaches to methodology, with a strong emphasis on the principles that guide scientific research, sampling, designs, and the different methods of data collection.
  • includes up-to-date studies in criminology, criminal justice, and other social studies.
  • presents the most essential aspects of social-research methodology.
  • explains basic concepts of research methodology in great detail.
  • expends on new and innovative methods and designs such as additional sampling techniques, propensity scores, evaluation studies, and evidence-based research designs.

 

Acknowledgements
Foreword

PART I: INTRODUCTION
Research Methods, Research Flow, and Research Designs: An Outline

Chapter 1 Introduction to Research Methods and Designs in Criminal Justice and Criminology—Lior Gideon.
Introduction
“Good” Research versus “Bad” Research
Two Common Research Models
Linear Model
Circular Model
Types of Studies According to Their Funding Agencies
Connection between Theory and Method
Selecting a Research Topic
Identifying a Research Problem
Hypotheses
Summary
References
Discussion Questions

Chapter 2 The Scientific Approach in Social Inquiry—Lior Gideon.
Scientific Approach and the Scientific Explanation
Explanation and Prediction
Dependent and Independent Variables
Concepts and Definitions
Conceptual and Construct Definitions
Can We Refer to Criminology and Criminal Justice as Science?
Ethics in Research
Summary
References
Discussion Questions

Chapter 3 Principles of Measurement—Lior Gideon.
Theoretical Definition
Operational Definition
Reliability: A Measure of Stability and Consistency
Test–Retest Reliability
Equivalent Measurement Reliability
Internal Consistency Reliability
Split-Half Reliability
Interrater or Interobserver Reliability
What Reliability Measure Should We Use?
Validity
Face Validity
Content Validity
Criterion validity
Construct Validity
Predictive Validity
External Validity
Internal Validity
Statistical Conclusion Validity
The Relationship between Reliability and Validity
Summary
References
Discussion Questions

PART II: SAMPLE SIZE
Sample Size and Statistical Power: An Outline

Chapter 4 Magic and Science in Multivariate Sentencing Models: Reflection on the limits of Statistical methods—Weisburd, D. L.
Introduction
Science and Magic in Statistical Sentencing Research: A Case Study
Correct Model Specification and Its Relevance to Magical Results
Conclusions
Discussion Questions

Chapter 5 Sample Size Consideration and Statistical Power—Lior Gideon.
Level of Measurements
Categorical Variables
Continues Variables
Summary
References
Discussion Questions

PART III: SAMPLING TECHNIQUES
Sampling Methods: An Outline

Chapter 6 Capturing Population Traits Using Samples: The Art of Choosing the Right Sample—Lior Gideon.
Census, Sampling Frame, and Population Sampling
Sample Size
Sampling Techniques Probability Sampling Techniques
Simple Random Sampling
Systematic Random Sampling
Stratified Random Sample
Cluster Sample
Nonprobability Sampling Techniques
Purposive Sample
Quota Sample
Snowball/Chain Sample
Convenience/Availability Sample
Summary
References
Discussion Questions

Chapter 7 Purposeful Sampling—Eyrich-Garg, K. M.
Extreme or Deviant Case Sampling
Intensity Sampling
Maximum Variation (Heterogeneity) Sampling
Homogenous Sampling
Typical Case Sampling
Critical Case Sampling
Snowball or Chain Sampling
Criterion Sampling
Theoretical Sampling, Operational Construct Sampling, & Theory-Based Sampling
Confirming and Disconfirming Cases
Stratified Purposeful Sampling
Opportunistic or Emergent Sampling
Purposeful Random Sampling
Sampling Politically Important Cases
Convenience Sampling
Combination or Mixed Purposeful Sampling
References
Discussion Questions

Chapter 8 Obtaining Representative Small Sample in Qualitative Studies—Lior Gideon.
Non-probability Sampling Methods
Network Sampling
The Ex-Sharon Prisoner’s Case Study and Methodology
Interviewees Sampling
Combination of Non-probability Sampling Methods—Discussion
Conclusion
Notes
References
Discussion Questions

PART IV: RESEARCH DESIGNS
Research Design Models: An Outline

Chapter 9 Descriptive Research Designs—Lior Gideon.
Exploratory Studies
Descriptive Studies
Exploratory versus Descriptive Studies Descriptive Longitudinal Studies
Time-Series Longitudinal Research
Panel Studies
Cohort Studies
Multiple-Group Trend Design
Cross-Sectional Studies
Hypothesis and Causality
Intervening and Interfering Variables
Summary
References
Discussion Questions

Chapter 10 Causality Research Designs—Lior Gideon.
Preexperimental Designs
Before-and-After Design
After-Only Design
After-with-Comparison Design
Experimental Designs
Randomized Experimental Design
Randomized Experimental Design with Comparison and Control
Solomon Four-Group Experimental Design
Multicenter Randomized Trial Design
Ethics and Experimental Design in Criminal Justice Research
Quasi-Experimental Designs
Example of Quasi-Experimental Design: Evaluation of a Prison-Based Therapeutic Community
Summary
References
Discussion Questions

Chapter 11 Deciding What Works What Doesn’t and What Looks
Promising—Lior Gideon.
Methodological Quality Scales
The SMS
Statistical Conclusion Validity Construct Validity
Points to Consider When Attempting to Promote the Use of Experimental Designs in Criminal Justice and Criminological Research
Summary
References

PART V: SURVEY METHODOLOGY
Survey Methodology: An Outline

Chapter 12 Survey Research—Lior Gideon.
Introduction
Sampling and Response Rate Errors
Nonsampling Errors
Types and Personalities of Survey Interviewers
Structuring Survey Questionnaire
What Is a Questionnaire?
Concept and Construct
Design a Questionnaire
Double-Barreled Questions
Double Negative Questions
“Leading” or “Loaded” Questions
Biased Questions
Pretesting
Finalizing the Survey
Summary
References
Recommended Readings
Recommended Websites
Discussion Questions

Chapter 13 Nonsampling vs. Sampling Errors in Survey Research—Assael, H., and Keon, J.
Introduction
Total Survey Error and Its Components
Response Error
Nonresponse Error
Data Collection and Survey Design
Analysis of Results
Random Sampling Error vs. Nonsampling Error
Direction of Response and Nonresponse Biases
Results by Questionnaire Delivery Method
Results by Pre-Alert Techniques
Results by Follow-Up Techniques
Results by Second Delivery
Conclusion
Appendix: Unbiased Estimates of Mean Squared Error for Total Survey Error, Nonsampling Error, and Sampling Error
References
Discussion Questions

PART VI: QUALITATIVE METHODS

Chapter 14 Ethnographic Research—Gideon, L.
Definitions and Goals of Ethnographic Studies
The Holistic Approach
Phrasing Research Questions and Hypotheses in Ethnographic Studies
The Ethnographic Research Design
Sampling
Time-Frame sampling
People Sampling
Event Sampling
Location or Place Sampling
Reliability and Validity in Ethnographic Research
Reliability
Validity
Response and Behavior Reaction
Social Recognition
Multiple Method of Data Collection (Triangulation)
Summary
References
Discussion Questions

Chapter 15 Observations as Data Collection Methods—Gideon, L., and Moskos, P.
Observations: Aims and Limitations Potential Biases and Criticism of Observation Research
Grounded Theory: Motivation for Discretionary Police Arrests
Types of Observations
The Pure Participant
The Pure Observer
Active Participant: The Participant as an Observer
Active Observer: The Observer as a Participant (Participant Observation)
Observation Methods
What and Whom to Observe How to Observe
Summary
References
Discussion Questions

Chapter 16 Interviewing: An Introduction—Gideon, L., and Moskos, P.
Interview Topics in Criminology and Criminal Justice
Types of Interview
Types of Questions to Ask
Summary
References
Discussion Questions

Chapter 17 Focus Group: An Introduction—Lieberman, C., and Gideon, L.
The Evolution of Focus Groups
What Are Focus Groups, and When Should They Be Used?
Sampling and Design Issues
Participation and Interaction among Participants
Analyzing Focus Group Data
Focus Group Advantages
Focus Group Disadvantages
Summary
References
Discussion Questions

PART VII: WRITING

Chapter 18 Academic Writing: Research Proposal and Research Report—Gideon, L., and Barnes-Ceeney, K.
Introduction
Literature Review
Method Section Results
Discussion
Policy Implications
References/Bibliography
Most Common Referencing Styles
Title Page
Abstract

List of Figures
List of Tables
Glossary
Index

Lior Gideon
Dr. Lior Gideon is a Professor of Criminal Justice in the Department of Law, Police Science and Criminal Justice Administration at John Jay College in New York. He holds a Doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in Criminology in Law from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, a Master’s degree (MA) in Sociology and Anthropology with specialization in Criminology and Law Enforcement, and a Bachelor’s degree (BA) in Sociology and Anthropology, both from Haifa University in Israel. Dr. Gideon completed a two years postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Maryland College Park where he served as an analyst for National Institute of Health (NIH) funded research; a fellowship that culminated with a prestigious award for innovation in research. Through the years, Dr. Gideon gained extensive experience of over 25 years in developing and teaching methodology courses for both undergraduate, graduate and post-graduate students in different countries and in different languages. He is the author/ editor of the Handbook of Survey Methodology for the Social Sciences (Springer Publication) and was invited to serve as a methodology advisor and a panel member of several grant proposal panels by the NIH, NIJ, ISF, NSF, and CUNY. Dr. Gideon’s research resulted in over 33 publications in reputable national and international peer-reviewed journals, 35 book chapters, and encyclopedia entries. He is also the author/ co-author/ editor of nine (9) books. Additionally, Dr. Gideon is a regular participant and presenter at national and international conferences with over 50 presentations and invited guest lectures. Further, Dr. Gideon is the co-founder and Co-Editor-in-Chief for an international journal titled Health & Justice.