Key Issues for Education Researchers

′In [this book], the clarity of the content organisation is strengthened by a simple, but not simplistic, exposition which makes [it] a valid educational support, suitable not only for students but also for all those who need some guidance to systematise their research activity and knowledge...I would certainly recommend [this book] to my students, since I find it a more complete, balanced and stimulating introduction to research than many other guides with similar aims that are currently available′ -
British Journal of Educational Technology

′Burton and Bartlett comfortably, and with style, map out the "how to"s of research, while at the same time presenting a book rich in the "what it means", discussing with ease the philosophical and epistemological underpinnings of educational research….As leader of an MA Education programme, I will most certainly be putting it on my "Required Reading" list - ESCalate

′Of the growing number of introductions and guides to research, there are few which have both the breadth and depth of this book; the reader readily develops a critical geography of a very wide field whilst at the same time digging deep into the vital issues which irradiate educational policies and research practices. Of the two books I would urge researchers to buy, this is one...′ - Professor Peter Clough, Liverpool Hope University

A very good support text for educational research modules -- Dr Jane Bulkeley * drupal *
This book is an excellent essential course text book. It covers everything a student needs to know for our undergraduate ′Researching Education′ course. In fact, I couldn′t ask for a better book! -- Dr Katherine Cartmell * drupal *
I really like the practical parts of this book - the chapters on research approaches and specific methods are very clear and helpful for students. The chapter on research paradigms and social perspectives is probably less so: it′s hard to write about these concepts simply, and I′m not sure that the chapter is that useful. However, it′s still a helpful volume. Students on Education 4 are familiar with ′Introduction to Education Studies′ by the same authors as it′s essential reading in an earlier module, and I think they′ll recognise the ′voice′ and so be able to engage with it straight away. -- Dr Shereen Benjamin * drupal *
Broad issues discussed and useful for someone new to the topic. -- Miss Alyson Lewis * drupal *
A helpful resource for students and lecturers, to ensure that key issues are covered when discussing the different paradigms, approaches and instruments.. -- Mr Cathal Butler * drupal *
There is useful information and pointers for all social welfare researchers here; the audience is wider that just academics. -- Mr Dave Mason * drupal *
An excellent and useful book - really easy to read and very appropriate for undergraduate researchers! -- Mrs Annie Ostapenko-Denton * drupal *
Another good all round text covering research methodology and methods. The authors adopt a down-to-earth approach and talk through the issues in an accessible manner, providing advice and aids such as useful checklists and detailed examples. The student activities are also useful from a tutor′s point of view and assist in making the learning process a little more practical. -- Mrs Claire Dean * drupal *
This is a really excellent book covering all the key areas for students undertaking research. It gives background information on paradigms and perspectives as well as covering the practical side of data gathering. This will be a highly recommended book for students. -- Mrs Emma Richer * drupal *
very good for research, however to indepth for this course -- Mrs Karen Cooke * drupal *
I am starting to plan for the reading for a possible Masters programme. This book will be included in my essential reading. It appears to be an excellent introductory book with further suggested reading for the student. For the student getting to grips with terms and vocabulary, it is ideal. For me as the teacher, it provides some activities that I may use in class as this is a subject area I have not taught before. The idea of checklists, summaries and examples is particularly helpful to both the student and for me. From a practical point of view it is light to carry and is an ideal study book to read on the train etc. -- Mrs Nicola Sowe * drupal *
The chapters of this book flow logically through the process of carrying out educational research.

The recommended reading list at the end of each chapter gives a summary of each, this will help the reader decide whether to access the material.

Activities within the chapters help put theory into practice and the chapter conclusions keep the points fresh in the mind of the reader.

Overall, a great book written in an accessible language. -- Ms Ann Gravells * drupal *
For most Ctlls and Dtlls learners or those undertaking a PGCE in the PCE sector (lifelong Learning) will know that the research assignments always cause the most stress for fear of not knowing how to construct or conduct an action research report and or presentation.
\
The layout is inviting and not in the least forbidding to the inexperienced amongst those delving into the area of educational research. Chapters are broken up into ‘easily digestible chunks’ with the use of sub-headings. Also the introductions and conclusions that frame each chapter and the activities and case studies also add to the usefulness of the book.
\
The book covers each aspect of research by addressing it in an easy to read way for the new researcher through to one converse with research skills. Each aspect explored being addressed in an unambiguous way. Terminology is explained and kept as simple as possible in order to not lose or confuse its reader but not in a patronising way.
\
Additional recommended or further reading is minimal as the authors obviously felt they had covered the majority of the information needed in this text book.
\
A particular comprehensive chapter on how to conduct interviews and observations is included.
\
Overall the book provides a good reference tool to have at ones side whether for the valuable first report or as an experienced learner needing to use it as a reference.
\
-- Ms Eklaine Vatandoust * drupal *
A useful basic text which provides u/g dissertation students with sound advice. This text complements other books on our list, giving students a different perspective. -- Ms Jane Murray * drupal *
an excellent resource for students studying research skills -- Ms Louise Lawson * drupal *
too broad, not specific enough -- Ms Sam Chenery-morris * drupal *