International Comparative Research: Theory, Methods and Practice

ISBN-13: 9780230217690 / Angielski / Miękka / 2009 / 208 str.

Linda Hantrais

Opis

This book is designed as a training and reference tool for students, researchers and practitioners wanting to conduct and commission effective, reliable international comparative research. Using a topic-based approach, it draws on many small and large-scale studies in the social sciences and humanities to analyse the research process.

Spis treści

List of Figures.- Preface.- Defining and Mapping International Comparative Research.- Disciplinary Approaches to Comparative Research in International Settings.- Project Design in International Comparative Research.- Defining and Analysing Concepts and Contexts.- Combining Methods in International Comparative Research.- Research and Policy in International Settings.- Managing International Comparative Research.- References.- Index.

O autorze

LINDA HANTRAIS is Emeritus Professor of European Social Policy at Loughborough University, UK; Visiting Fellow at the Centre for International Studies, London School of Economics; and Member of the Academy of Social Sciences, UK. Her publications include Social Policy in the European Union, now in its third edition, and Family Policy Matters: Responding to Family Change in Europe.

Blurb

This authoritative book examines the what, why and how of international comparative research. It offers a comprehensive topic-based overview of the theory and practice of comparative research and addresses the possible concerns of those both funding the research and using the findings.

Drawing on illustrations from the extensive international literature as well as real-life comparative studies, the chapters guide readers through the many stages in the research process, from research design and data collection to the analysis and interpretation of findings.

In a book that crosses national, societal, cultural and disciplinary boundaries, the author:
• Pinpoints practical problems and directs readers to tried and tested solutions, including multiple method strategies.
• Draws on examples of policy transfer to examine how comparative research can inform policy making
• Provides guidance on the management of international research teams and projects.

This resource is the ultimate reference tool for students, researchers and practitioners undertaking comparative research projects in international settings across the social sciences and humanities.