Psychological Research

methods for discovery and validation

Plot

Research Methods 1st edition, by Arlene Vadum and Neil Rankin, is unique in its presentation of the context in which modern research methods originated and evolved—the human side of research methods is presented along side with the technical information, making a difficult subject more understandable and interesting to students. The development of modern research methods and ethical principles is explained with examples and logic from the scientists and psychologists who originated them. Organized into three sections, the text first deals with basics of research methods (clarity, design, control, measurement, and ethics) before moving on to advanced topics and finally practical concerns. The last three chapters of the text are designed to help the student prepare research studies and reports in the APA style, as is required by most courses. Each of these chapters is filled with research examples to illustrate ideas and methods concretely and vividly.