Surveying the Social World: Principles and Practice in Survey Research (Understanding Social Research)

The survey has become a widely used technique for gathering information and opinions from individuals, organizations and other groups. This work examines the contemporary state of surveys within society and social science methodology, explaining the potential of the survey method and the ways it can be used effectively when resources are limited. It then takes the reader systematically through the process of conducting survey research covering in turn, the role of theory, the planning and design of projects, pilot work, access to informants, ethical issues, sampling methods, the preparation of questionnaires, interviewing, the use of computer packages, processing response, statistical methods of data analysis, and the presentation of findings. This book examines and assesses the current standards for surveys, especially as they are used in the social sciences. They explain the technique's potential and effective application, outlining the process of conducting survey research. The role of theory, the planning and design of projects, pilot work, access to informants, ethical issues, sampling methods, questionnaire preparation, interviewing, processing responses, data analysis, and the presentation of findings are all described. Aldridge and Levine teach sociology at the University of Nottingham. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com) Every book on social surveys is trying to be helpful.