Research Methods for Public Administrators

Cover -- Title -- Copyright -- Contents -- Preface to the Sixth Edition -- Acknowledgements -- 1 Beginning a Research Project -- Starting a Research Project -- Using Models to Organize the Research Study -- Building the Model -- Types of Models -- Limitations of Models and Model Building for Specific Users -- The Components of Models -- Selecting a Research Question -- Summary -- Notes -- Terms for Review -- Questions for Review -- Problems for Homework and Discussion -- Working With Data -- Recommended for Further Reading -- 2 Designs for Description -- Research Methodology « Research Methods for Public Administrators introduces students to the methodological tools public administrators and policy analysts use to conduct research in the twenty-first century. Full of engaging examples and step-by-step instructions to illustrate common research methods and techniques, this book provides future adminstrators with an unshakeable foundation in model building, research design, and statistical applications. New to the sixth edition: sections addressing recent developments in research methods, such as big data and exploratory data analysis; expanded coverage of digital media, including internet surveys and survey data collection by tablet computers; greater focus on qualitative research methods and their strenghts and weaknesses relative to quantitative methods; updated study items, knowledge questions, homework exercises, and problem assignments for each chapter. »-- Quatrième de couverture Research Methods for Public Administrators introduces students to the methodological tools public administrators and policy analysts use to conduct research in the twenty-first century. Full of engaging examples and step-by-step instructions to illustrate common research methods and techniques, this book provides future administrators with an unshakeable foundation in model building, research design, and statistical applications. New to the Sixth Edition: Sections addressing recent developments in research methods, such as Big Data and Exploratory Data Analysis Expanded coverage of digital media, including internet surveys and survey data collection by tablet computers Greater focus on qualitative research methods and their strengths and weaknesses relative to quantitative methods Updated study items, knowledge questions, homework exercises, and problem assignments for each chapter This practical, up-to-date text introduces students to the methodological tools public administrators and policy analysts use to conduct research. This lucid text offers an abundance of examples to illustrate methods and step-by-step instructions focusing on common research techniques, providing a sound foundation in model building, research design, measurement, and sampling. The statistical section of the book focuses on correct use and interpretation of commonly used statistics, including linear regression. The book's overall aim is to develop effective, efficient research skills among future public administrators so that they will be better policy makers and good administrators. It accomplishes this not only by providing a solid foundation in technique, but by developing an awareness of the ethical issues associated with conducting research and reporting findings.