The primary objective of this book is to help readers become educated consumers of research. It provides a practical, applied, and user-friendly approach to research methods by consistently applying the concepts learned to real-life examples of research. Each chapter builds upon prior chapters so readers can incrementally learn the dynamics of the research process. Readers will understand how research is one of several sources of knowledge when they are faced with the question "How do we know what we know?"

Students will learn core research topics, including sampling methods, survey research, experimental and quasi-experimental designs, field research, and unobtrusive methods. A practical and applied approach to statistics allows readers to engage with the material while they critique, evaluate, and comment on research findings.