Includes bibliographical references and index.

Nature and tools of research --
Problem : the heart of the research process --
Review of the related literature --
Planning your research project --
Writing the research proposal --
Descriptive research --
Experimental, quasi-experimental, and ex post facto designs --
Qualitative research methods --
Mixed-method designs --
Action research and participatory designs --
Analyzing quantitative data --
Analyzing qualitative and mixed-methods data --
Planning and preparing a final research report --
Appendix A. Using a spreadsheet : Microsoft Excel --
Appendix B. Using SPSS.

Practical Research: Planning and Design is a do-it-yourself, how-to manual for planning and conducting research. Suitable for a wide variety of courses in basic research methodology, the book uses a conversational tone, step-by-step instructions, and practical suggestions to guide the reader from the selection of a problem to the preparation of a completed report.