Discovering Qualitative Methods: Ethnography, Interviews, Documents, and Images - Softcover

"The authors' writing style is accessible and straightforward. This is one of the best books currently available for engaging sociology students in the process of doing qualitative research. It has served me well."--Peter Grahame, Pennsylvania State University

"Discovering Qualitative Methods is far more thorough than texts that I have used in the past. It gives students a broader exposure to issues in research methods and enables them to use their sociological imaginations to devise their own specific research questions. The authors really break down the key issues in research methods. They provide a 'map' for actually doing real research. This is absolutely invaluable. I would definitely adopt a new edition of this book."--Dana M. Greene, University of North Carolina

"Discovering Qualitative Methods uses an ethnographic lens through which to portray and induct students into qualitative research. The authors do a great job of covering the important topics related to the subject. I have been describing this book to colleagues as a delightful read. The basic everyday aspects of doing research are laid out in a plain and straightforward way for students."--Raewyn Bassett, Dalhousie University

In Discovering Qualitative Methods, Third Edition, researchers Carol A. B. Warren and Tracy Xavia Karner emphasize the process of social research--from the initial idea to the final paper, journal article, or scholarly monograph. Establishing the theoretical underpinnings and applications of qualitative research, the authors offer comprehensive yet straightforward coverage that includes the major types of qualitative analysis: field research or ethnography, interviews, documents, and images. They also discuss the historical background and evolution of research practices, in turn teaching students how to generate and develop their own rigorous practices. A thorough, versatile text, Discovering Qualitative Methods, Third Edition, is ideal for undergraduate and graduate courses in qualitative methods and general research methods. It is also appropriate for qualitative methods courses in other social science disciplines including anthropology, business, communications, education, journalism, and social work.