Research Methodology & Applications of SPSS in Social Science Research

Book excerpt: Research methodology is taught as a supporting subject in several ways in many academic disciplines such as education, psychology, social work, library studies and marketing research. The core philosophical base for this book comes from my conviction that, although these disciplines vary in content, their broad approach to a research enquiry is similar. This book, therefore, is addressed to these academic disciplines and business people. This textbook provides the readers with an understanding of the Introduction to Research, types of research, Steps in Research Process, Identification of Research Problems, Importance of Review of Literature, Research Design, Methods of Data Collection, Hypothesis, Sampling Techniques, Introduction to SPSS, Descriptive Statistics, Cross tabulation, One Sample t-Test, Paired Sample t-test, One Way ANOVA, Two Way ANOVA, Factorial ANOVA, MANOVA, Chi-Square Test, Non- Parametric Test, MANN Whitney Test, Wilcoxan Test, Kruskal -Wallis Test, Friedman Test, Correlation Analysis, Multiple Regression Analysis, Factor Analysis, Cluster Analysis, Multi - Dimensional Scaling, Discriminate Analysis , Canonical Correlation, Overview of Structural Equation Model (SEM) and Report Writing. It uses simple examples to demystify complex theories and methodologies. This well-organized book deals with the variety of research methods and tools used in management and social sciences with application of SPSS. A Handbook of Research Methodology is recommended for use in undergraduate and postgraduate courses focusing on research methodologies in various disciplines. The edition contains significant additional input in almost every chapter of the book. It provided enhanced insights into issues from emerging countries' business. The practical examples covers all aspects of parametric and non - parametric test which is relevant for business in these emerging countries. This edition includes several new cases and examples which would help students comprehend the research methodologies illustrated in each chapter. This edition will equip students with the knowledge of skills involved in this basic research process.