xxiv, 430 pages : 26 cm "This best-selling introduction to research methods provides students and researchers with unrivalled coverage of both quantitative and qualitative methods, making it invaluable for anyone embarking on social research. Bridging the gap between theory and practice, Social Research Methods is packed full of engaging examples and practical tips to equip students with the tools and knowledge needed for them to complete their own research projects. In addition to providing practical advice, Bryman deftly explores the nature of social research and the wider issues impinging on it."--Provided by publisher Includes bibliographical references (pages 406-420) and index General research orientations -- Research designs -- Research ethics -- The nature of quantitative research -- Survey research : structured interviewing an questionnaires -- Asking questions -- Structured observation -- Other sources of data -- The nature of qualitative research -- Ethnography and participant observation -- Interviewing in qualitative research -- Sampling -- Quantitative data analysis -- Qualitative data analysis -- Breaking down the quantitative/qualitative divide -- Content analysis -- Writing up social research -- Conducting a research project -- Appendix A : Using IBM SPSS statistics and NVivo software -- Appendix B : The ideal stages of research -- Glossary