Earl Babbie

Bio: Earl Babbie is an academic researcher from Chapman University. The author has contributed to research in topics: Social research & Qualitative research. The author has an hindex of 21, co-authored 44 publications receiving 27359 citations.

The practice of social research

Abstract: Part I: AN INTRODUCTION TO INQUIRY. 1. Human Inquiry and Science. 2. Paradigms, Theory, and Social Research. 3. The Ethics and Politics of Social Research. Part II: THE STRUCTURING OF INQUIRY: QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE. 4. Research Design. 5. Conceptualization, Operationalization, and Measurement. 6. Indexes, Scales, and Typologies. 7. The Logic of Sampling. Part III: MODES OF OPERATION: QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE. 8. Experiments. 9. Survey Research. 10. Qualitative Field Research. 11. Unobtrusive Research. 12. Evaluation Research. Part IV: ANALYSIS OF DATA: QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE. 13. Qualitative Data Analysis. 14. Quantitative Data Analysis. 15. The Logic of Multivariate Analysis. 16. Statistical Analyses. 17. Reading and Writing Social Research. APPENDICES. A. Using the Library. B. GSS Household Enumeration Questionnaire. C. Random Numbers. D. Distribution of Chi Square. E. Normal Curve Areas. F. Estimated Sampling Error. Preface. Acknowledgments.

The Practice of Social Research.

Abstract: Part I: AN INTRODUCTION TO INQUIRY. 1. Human Inquiry and Science. 2. Paradigms, Theory, and Social Research. 3. The Ethics and Politics of Social Research. Part II: THE STRUCTURING OF INQUIRY: QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE. 4. Research Design. 5. Conceptualization, Operationalization, and Measurement. 6. Indexes, Scales, and Typologies. 7. The Logic of Sampling. Part III: MODES OF OPERATION: QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE. 8. Experiments. 9. Survey Research. 10. Qualitative Field Research. 11. Unobtrusive Research. 12. Evaluation Research. Part IV: ANALYSIS OF DATA: QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE. 13. Qualitative Data Analysis. 14. Quantitative Data Analysis. 15. The Logic of Multivariate Analysis. 16. Statistical Analyses. 17. Reading and Writing Social Research. APPENDICES. A. Using the Library. B. GSS Household Enumeration Questionnaire. C. Random Numbers. D. Distribution of Chi Square. E. Normal Curve Areas. F. Estimated Sampling Error. Preface. Acknowledgments.

Survey Research Methods

Abstract: PART I. THE SCIENTIFIC CONTEXT OF SURVEY RESEARCH. 1. The Logic of Science. The Traditional Perspective. The Debunking of Science. Science in Practice. What is Science? 2. Science and Social Science. The Search for Social Regularities. The Characteristics of Social Science. Methods of Social Scientific Research. 3. Survey Research as a Method of Social Science. A Brief History of Survey Research. The Scientific Characteristics of Survey Research. A Comparison of Survey and Other Methods. Is Survey Research Really Scientific? PART II. SURVEY RESEARCH DESIGN. 4. Types of Study Design. Purposes of Survey Research. Units of Analysis. Basic Survey Designs. Variations on Basic Designs. Choosing the Appropriate Design. 5. The Logic of Survey Sampling. The Logic of Probability Sampling. Sampling Concepts and Terminology. Probability Sampling Theory and Sampling. Distribution. Populations and Sampling Frames. Types of Sampling Designs. Disproportionate Sampling and Weighting. Nonprobability Sampling. Nonsurvey Uses of Sampling Methods. 6. Examples of Sample Designs. Sampling University Students. Sampling Medical School Faculty. Sampling Episcopal Churchwomen. Sampling Oakland Households. 7. Conceptualization and Instrument Design. Logic of Conceptualization. An Operationalization Framework. Types of Data. Levels of Measurement. Guides to Question Construction. Measurement Quality. General Questionnaire Format. Ordering Questions in a Questionnaire. Instructions. Reproducing the Questionnaire. 8. Index and Scale Construction. Indexes Versus Scales. Index Construction. Scale Construction. Typologies. PART III. DATA COLLECTION. 9. Self-Administered Questionnaires. Mail Distribution and Return. Postal Options and Relative Costs. Monitoring Returns. Follow-up Mailings. Acceptable Response Rates. A Case Study. 10. Interview Surveys. Imporance of Interviewer. General Rules for Interviewing. Interviewer Training. The Interviewing Operation. 11. Data Processing. Computers in Survey Research. Coding. Codebook Construction. Coding and Data Entry Options. Precoding for Data Entry. Data Cleaning. 12. Pretests and Pilot Studies. Conducting Pretests. Conducting Pilot Studies. Evaluating Pretests and Pilot Studies. PART IV. SURVEY RESEARCH ANALYSIS. 13. The Logic of Measurement and Association. The Traditional Image. The Interchangeability of Indexes. Implications. 14. Constructing and Understanding Tables. Univariate Analysis. Subgroup Descriptions. Bivariate Analysis. Multivariate Analysis. 15. The Elaboration Model. History of the Elaboration Model. The Elaboration Paradigm. Elaboration and Ex Post Facto Hypothesizing. 16. Social Statistics. Descriptive Statistics. Inferential Statistics. 17. Advanced Multivariate Techniques. Regression Analysis. Path Analysis. Factor Analysis. Analysis of Variance. Discriminant Analysis. Log-Linear Models. 18. The Reporting of Survey Research. Some Basic Considerations. Organization of the Reports. Guidelines for Reporting Analysis. PART V. SURVEY RESEARCH IN SOCIAL CONTEXT. 19. The Ethics of Survey Research. Voluntary Participation. No Harm to Respondents. Anonymity and Confidentiality. Identifying Purpose and Sponsor. Analysis and Reporting. A Professional Code of Ethics. Ethics -- Relevant Illustrations. 20. The Informed Survey Research Consumer. Research Design. Measurement. Sampling. Data Analysis. Data Reporting. APPENDICES. Appendix A. Table of Random Numbers. Appendix B. Estimated Sampling Error for a Binomial (95% Confidence Level). Appendix C. Distribution of Chi Square. Appendix D. Normal Curve Areas.

Research Methods for Social Work

Abstract: In this extensive revision of their best-selling research methods text for social workers, Rubin and Babbie retain the integrity of their comprehensive, quantitative approach, while truly integrating increased coverage of qualitative methods This text has been acclaimed for the depth and breadth of coverage and the clear and often humorous writing style Building on those winning qualities, the authors have created a new edition that provides a balanced and up-to-date presentation, current coverage of technological advances, culturally competent research, and other topics of emerging importance Considered the best social work research methods resource, Rubin and Babbie's text balances depth of content with student-friendly examples and consistently helps students see the connections between research and social work practice

The basics of social research

Abstract: Part I: AN INTRODUCTION TO INQUIRY 1 Human Inquiry and Science 2 Paradigms, Theory, and Research 3 The Ethics and Politics of Social Research Part II: THE STRUCTURING OF INQUIRY: QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE 4 Research Design 5 Conceptualization, Operationalization, and Measurement 6 Indexes, Scales, and Typologies 7 The Logic of Sampling Part III: MODES OF OBSERVATION: QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE 8 Experiments 9 Survey Research 10 Qualitative Field Research 11 Unobtrusive Research 12 Evaluation Research Part IV: ANALYSIS OF DATA:QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE 13 Qualitative Data Analysis 14 Quantitative Data Analysis 15 Reading and Writing Social Research Appendix A Using the Library Appendix B Random Numbers Appendix C Distribution of Chi Square Appendix D Normal Curve Areas Appendix E Estimated Sampling Error

Three Approaches to Qualitative Content Analysis

Abstract: Content analysis is a widely used qualitative research technique. Rather than being a single method, current applications of content analysis show three distinct approaches: conventional, directed, or summative. All three approaches are used to interpret meaning from the content of text data and, hence, adhere to the naturalistic paradigm. The major differences among the approaches are coding schemes, origins of codes, and threats to trustworthiness. In conventional content analysis, coding categories are derived directly from the text data. With a directed approach, analysis starts with a theory or relevant research findings as guidance for initial codes. A summative content analysis involves counting and comparisons, usually of keywords or content, followed by the interpretation of the underlying context. The authors delineate analytic procedures specific to each approach and techniques addressing trustworthiness with hypothetical examples drawn from the area of end-of-life care.

Qualitative Research Methods for the Social Sciences

Abstract: IN THIS SECTION: 1.) BRIEF 2.) COMPREHENSIVE BRIEF TABLE OF CONTENTS: Chapter 1: Introduction Chapter 2: Designing Qualitative Research Chapter 3: Ethical Issues Chapter 4: A Dramaturgical Look at Interviewing Chapter 5: Focus Group Interviewing Chapter 6: Ethnographic Field Strategies Chapter 7: Action Research Chapter 8: Unobtrusive Measures in Research Chapter 9: Social Historical Research and Oral Traditions Chapter 10: Case Studies Chapter 11: An Introduction to Content Analysis Chapter 12: Writing Research Papers: Sorting the Noodles from the Soup COMPREHENSIVE TABLE OF CONTENTS: Chapter 1: Introduction Quantitative Versus Qualitative Schools of Thought Use of Triangulation in Research Methodology Qualitative Strategies: Defining an Orientation From a Symbolic Interactionist Perspective Why Use Qualitative Methods? A Plan of Presentation Chapter 2: Designing Qualitative Research Theory and Concepts Ideas and Theory Reviewing the Literature Evaluating Web Sites Content versus Use Theory, Reality, and the Social World Framing Research Problems Operationalization and Conceptualization Designing Projects Data Collection and Organization Data Storage, Retrieval, and Analysis Dissemination Trying It Out Chapter 3: Ethical Issues Research Ethics in Historical Perspective From Guidelines to Law: Regulations on the Research Process Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) Ethical Codes Some Common Ethical Concerns in Behavioral Research New Areas for Ethical Concern: Cyberspace Informed Consent and Implied Consent Confidentiality and Anonymity Securing the Data Objectivity and Careful Research Design Trying It Out Chapter 4: A Dramaturgical Look at Interviewing Dramaturgy and Interviewing Types of Interviews The Data Collection Instrument Guideline Development Communicating Effectively A Few Common Problems in Question Formulation Pretesting the Schedule Long Versus Short Interviews Telephone Interviews Computer Assisted Interviewing Conducting an Interview: A Natural or an Unnatural Communication? The Dramaturgical Interview The Interviewer's Repertoire Know Your Audience Analyzing Data Obtained from the Dramaturgical Interview Trying It Out Chapter 5: Focus Group Interviewing What are Focus Groups? Working With a Group The Evolution of Focus Group Interviews Facilitating Focus Group Dynamics: How Focus Groups Work The Moderator's Guide Basic Ingredients in Focus Groups Analyzing Focus Group Data Confidentiality and Focus Group Interviews Recent Trends in Focus Groups: Online Focus Groups Trying It Out Chapter 6: Ethnographic Field Strategies Accessing a Field Setting: Getting In Reflectivity and Ethnography Critical Ethnography Becoming Invisible Other Dangers During Ethnographic Research Watching, Listening, and Learning How to Learn: What to Watch and Listen For Computers and Ethnography OnLine Ethnography Analyzing Ethnographic Data Other Analysis Strategies: Typologies, Sociograms, and Metaphors Disengaging: Getting Out Trying It Out Chapter 7: Action Research The Basics of Action Research Identifying the Research Question(s) Gathering the Information to Answer the Question(s) Analyzing and Interpreting the Information Sharing the Results with the Participants When to Use and When Not to Use Action Research The Action Researcher's Role Types of Action Research Photovoice and Action Research Action Research: A Reiteration Trying It Out Chapter 8: Unobtrusive Measures in Research Archival Strategies Physical Erosion and accretion: Human Traces as Data Sources Trying It Out Chapter 9: Social Historical Research and Oral Traditions What Is Historical Research? Life Histories and Social History What Are the Sources of Data for Historical Researchers? Doing Historiography: Tracing Written History as Data What Are Oral Histories? Trying It Out Chapter 10: Case Studies The Nature of Case Studies Theory and Case Studies The Individual Case Study Intrinsic, Instrumental, and Collective Case Studies Case Study Design Types Designing Case Studies The Scientific Benefit of Case Studies Case Studies of Organizations Case Studies of Communities Trying It Out Chapter 11: An Introduction to Content Analysis What is Content Analysis? Analysis of Qualitative Data Content Analysis as a Technique Content Analysis: Quantitative or Qualitative? Communication Components What to Count: Levels and Units of Analysis Category Development: Building Grounded Theory Discourse Analysis and Content Analysis Open Coding Coding Frames Stages in the Content Analysis Process Strengths and Weaknesses of the Content Analysis Process Computers and Qualitative Analysis Qualitative Research at the Speed of Light Trying It Out Chapter 12: Writing Research Papers: Sorting the Noodles from the Soup Plagiarism: What It Is, Why It's Bad, and How to Avoid It Identifying the Purpose of the Writing: Arranging the Noodles Delineating a Supportive Structure: Visual Signals for the Reader Terms and Conditions Presenting Research Material A Word About the Content of Papers and Articles Write It, Rewrite It, Then Write It Again! A Few Writing Hints A Final Note

Collecting and Interpreting Qualitative Materials

Abstract: Preface - Norman K. Denzin and Yvonna S. Lincoln About the Editors About the Contributors 1. Introduction: The Discipline and Practice of Qualitative Research - Norman K.Denzin and Yvonna S. Lincoln I. Methods of Collecting and Analyzing Empirical Materials 2. Narrative Inquiry: Still a Field in the Making - Susan E. Chase 3. Critical Arts-based Inquiry: The Pedagogy and Performance of a Radical Ethical Aesthetic - Susan Finley 4. Oral History - Linda Shopes 5. Observations on Observation: Continuities and Challenges - Michael Angrosino and Judith Rosenberg 6. Visual Methodology: Toward a More Seeing Research - Jon D. Prosser 7. Performative Autoethnography: Critical Embodiments and Possibilities - Tami Spry 8. The Methods, Politics, and Ethics of Representation in Online Ethnography - Sarah Gaston 9. Analyzing Talk and Text - Anssi Parakyla and Johanna Ruusuvuori 10. Focus Groups: Contingent Articulations of Pedagogy, Politics, and Inquiry - George Kamberelis and Greg Dimitriadis II. The Art and Practices of Interpretation, Evaluation, and Presentation 11. Qualitative Research, Science, and Government: Evidence, Criteria, Policy, and Politics - Harry Torrance 12. Reflections on Interpretive Adequacy in Qualitative Research - David L. Altheide and John M. Johnson 13. Analysis and Representation Across the Continuum - Laura L. Ellingson 14. Post Qualitative Research: The Critique and the Coming After - Elisabeth Adams St. Pierre 15. Qualitative Research and Technology: In the Midst of a Revolution - Judith Davidson and Silvana diGregorio 16. The Elephant in the Living Room, or Extending the Conversation About the Politics of Evidence - Norman K. Denzin 17. Writing into Position: Strategies for Composition and Evaluation - Ronald J. Pelias 18. Evaluation as a Relationally Responsible Practice - Tineke Abma and Guy A.M. Widdershoven, Norman K. Denzin and Yvonna S. Lincoln Author Index Subject Index

Index Construction with Formative Indicators: An Alternative to Scale Development

Abstract: Although the methodological literature is replete with advice regarding the development and validation of multi-item scales based on reflective measures, the issue of index construction using formative measures has received little attention. The authors seek to address this gap by (1) examining the nature of formative indicators, (2) discussing ways in which the quality of formative measures can be assessed, and (3) illustrating the proposed procedures with empirical data. The aim is to enhance researchers’ understanding of formative measures and assist them in their index construction efforts.

Survey response rate levels and trends in organizational research

Abstract: This study examines the response rates for surveys used in organizational research. We analysed 1607 studies published in the years 2000 and 2005 in 17 refereed academic journals, and we identified 490 different studies that utilized surveys. We examined the response rates in these studies, which covered more than 100,000 organizations and 400,000 individual respondents. The average response rate for studies that utilized data collected from individuals was 52.7 percent with a standard deviation of 20.4, while the average response rate for studies that utilized data collected from organizations was 35.7 percent with a standard deviation of 18.8. Key insights from further analysis include relative stability in response rates in the past decade and higher response rates for journals published in the USA. The use of incentives was not found to be related to response rates and, for studies of organizations, the use of reminders was associated with lower response rates. Also, electronic data collection efforts (e.g. email, phone, web) resulted in response rates as high as or higher than traditional mail methodology. We discuss a number of implications and recommendations.