Fundamentals of Research in Criminology and Criminal Justice

Synopsis

The Fundamentals of Research in Criminology and Criminal Justice Using a lively, informal writing style to address research methods questions, The Fundamentals of Research in Criminology and Criminal Justice sheds light on how criminal research is conducted and helps students understand and appreciate the results. This brief textbook, derived from Bachman and Schutta's popular The Practice of Research in Criminology and Criminal Justice, Third Edition , offers more concise examples and less coverage of more complex methods than the original. Using both quantitative and qualitative studies, The Fundamentals of Research delineates how each methodology has been used to improve our understanding of criminal justice-related issues. Key Features and Benefits Applies research methodology with plenty of in-depth examples taken from real criminal justice research, helping students better understand the a'big picturea? of research methods and their policy implications for the field Combines qualitative and quantitative approaches, providing a balanced and complete view of research methods Integrates ethical concerns and ethical decision making throughout the text, encouraging students to appreciate the ethical dilemmas researchers face at each step of the research process Includes extensive end-of-chapter exercises and appendices, with step-by-step procedures for conducting literature reviews and guidance on how to read and analyze research articles Ancillaries • A robust online student study site at www.sagepub.com/frccjstudy features GSS data sets, appendices on using qualitative and quantitative software, carefully selected journal articles that illustrate major concepts and techniques, and interactive exercises tied to real research for student practice. a? Instructorsa? Resources on CD-ROM include test questions, PowerPoint files, suggested assignments, and a review of course organization options. The resources incorporate exercises specially designed for collaborative group work inside and outside the classroom. Intended Audience This core textbook is designed for undergraduate Research Methods courses in departments of criminal justice and criminology.