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This comprehensive and wide-ranging volume brings together the experiences of leading researches from across the social science disciplines. It discusses the process of social research, its design, its sponsorship, its funding, the role of the researcher, and the ethical issues with which she/he must engage. It also addresses the major theories relating to research methods and examines the different types of social research ranging from those of a fundamental kind to more applied and policy-focused work. The 'stories from the field' are narrative accounts of research studies, which explore how the research design and methods were shaped by the methodology, discuss problematic issues, and reflect on how knowledge and understanding were developed. The unique features of this book include: Emphasis on how research is actually done. Implications for research design in every chapter. 'Insider's view' in the 'stories from the field'. Wide coverage of qualitative methods including postmodernist perspectives. Two substantial sections on quantitative methods. Illustrating major advances in social science research, this volume addresses some of the key challenges for researchers and teachers in the 21 century. It will also serve as an essential text for postgraduate students and first-time researchers.