This textbook has been developed from years of teaching Research Methods. During that time, we would try different examples and explanations in the classroom and watch the students' responses. Over the years, the course has evolved into a less intimidating, more interesting approach that seems to be very effective in getting students interested in research. Our students have been very helpful in this evolutionary process. Their feedback has directed our progress through the development of the Research Methods course and the writing of this book. In many respects they have been our teachers.
Chapter 1 Introduction, Acquiring Knowledge, and the Scientific Method
Chapter 2 Research Ideas
Chapter 3 Defining and Measuring Variables
Chapter 4 Ethics in Research
Chapter 5 Selecting Research Participants
Chapter 6 Research Strategies and Validity
Chapter 7 Experimental Research Strategy
Chapter 8 Experimental Designs: Between-Subjects Design
Chapter 9 Experimental Designs: Within-Subjects Design
Chapter 10 Nonexperimental and Quasi-Experimental Strategies: Nonequivalent Group, Pre-Post, and Developmental Designs
,etc.