Research Methods Handbook Introduction We are all “users” of social research. How we apprehend and absorb information and use our critical faculties feeds what we believe about the social world. From surveys reported in the media to market research, opinion poll - ing and large scale datasets such as the British Crime Survey. Social Research Methods are the tools used to explain social phenomena and often it is more possible to challenge conclusions if you are at least conversant with the variety of methodologies and tools applied. What is this book about? This book provides an introduction to the reader to a whole range of research methods. It aims to introduce a toolkit of methods, explain-ing how to use them, their appropriateness and some of the pitfalls of using them in practice. The sections explain in turn: • What is the method? • When should it be used? • What do I need to consider? • What is the output? • How should it be analysed? • Examples from practice • Pros/Cons • Further Reading There is also a glossary of technical terms at the back of the book.