An applied reference guide to research designs : quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods / W. Alex Edmonds, Thomas D. Kennedy.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

A primer of the scientific method and relevant components. Part I. Quantitative methods for experimental and quasi-experimental research. Between-subjects approach -- Regression-discontinuity approach -- Within-subjects approach -- Factorial designs -- Solomon N-group designs -- Single-case approach. Part II. Quantitative methods for nonexperimental research. Ex post facto and posttest-only designs -- Observational approach -- Survey approach. Part III. Qualitative methods. Grounded theory perspective -- Ethnographic perspective -- Narrative perspective -- Phenomenological perspective. Part IV. Mixed methods. Convergent-parallel approach -- Embedded approach -- Explanatory-sequential approach -- Exploratory-sequential approach --Mixed methods, case studies, and single-case approaches -- Action research approaches -- Conclusion.

The Second Edition of An Applied Guide to Research Designs offers researchers in the social and behavioral sciences guidance for selecting the most appropriate research design to apply in their study. Using consistent terminology, the authors visually present a range of research designs used in quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods to help readers conceptualize, construct, test, and problem solve in their investigation. The Second Edition features revamped and expanded coverage of research designs, new real-world examples and references, a new chapter on action research, and updated ancillaries.