David de Vaus' classic text Surveys in Social Research provides clear
advice on how to plan, conduct and analyse social surveys. It emphasises
the links between theory and research, the logic and interpretation of
statistics and the practices of social research. This sixth edition has
been completely revised and updated, and contains new examples, data and
extensive lists of web resources.
As well as explaining how to conduct good surveys, de Vaus shows how to
become a critical consumer of research. He argues that the logic of
surveys and statistics is simply an extension of the logic we use in
everyday life; analysis, however, requires creativity and imagination
rather than the application of sterile mechanical procedures. The prime
goal of research should be to gain accurate understanding and, as a
researcher, use methods and techniques which enhance understanding. De
Vaus advocates researchers use the method, rather than letting the
method use you.
Surveys in Social Research is essential reading for students and
researchers working with surveys. It assumes no background in
statistical analysis, and gives you the tools you need to come to grips
with this often challenging field of work.